Get your pet micro-chipped - It is relatively inexpensive to have a veterinarian implant a microchip that contains the owner's contact information. Owners can be located if shelter or veterinary clinic scans the chip. Finding a lost pet that hasn't been micro-chipped can be extremely difficult and many times impossible. If your pet is already micro-chipped, make sure the registration information is up to date so you can be contacted if your pet is found.
Prepare a disaster kit - Along with your families' emergency kit, prepare one for your pet ahead of time. Include everything your pet will need, from food and water, prescriptions, to leashes and bedding. Although this may mean purchasing twice as much stuff, it will be faster and easier to gather your pet's items if you have them all together and ready for an emergency.
Plan where your pet will stay in case you need to evacuate - Pets are often not allowed in evacuation centers unless they are service animals. You can ask out of town friends or relatives about keeping your pet in an emergency ahead of time, or you can check a website that lists pet-friendly hotels, so you have some locations ready to book.
Use a buddy system with friends, family, and neighbors in case you're not home during an emergency - Have a trusted person you can call to check on pets and evacuate them if necessary. Having a kit ready to go will make it easier for them if you are not there.
Practice evacuating or sheltering in place with your pet - This will help familiarize your pet with the process so when the time comes, it won't be scary for them. Training pets to be in their carrier can make them more comfortable and reduce the stress of getting everyone out safely. Know exactly how and where you will place your pet's carrier and supplies in a vehicle.
Sheltering in Place
Pick a room with few or no windows, no toxic chemicals or plants, and make sure to close off small areas where frightened pets could get stuck.
Include your pet in the family's plan. Everyone should know who will grab the pet(s), supplies, and where you will meet during an emergency.
Tips for Large Animals
Ensure all animals have some form of identification.
Evacuate animals whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care, and handling equipment.
Build a Kit
Food - At least a three day supply in an airtight container, waterproof container
Water - At least three day supply specifically for your pets
Medicines and medical records - Keep an extra supply of the medications your pet takes on a daily basis and store in an air tight container.
First aid kit - Talk with your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet's emergency medical needs. Include a pet first aid reference book.
Collar or harness with ID tags, rabies tag and a leash
Crate or pet carrier which is large enough for your pet to stand in and turn around
Sanitation
Chlorine bleach
Newspapers
Paper towels
Pet litter and litter box
Plastic trash bags
A picture of you with your pet - This will help you document ownership and allow others to identify by including any distinguishing characteristics.