Military families know one thing better than most…
Expect the unexpected.
One duty station might have hurricane season. The next could mean wildfire warnings, snowstorms, flooding, or even tsunami alerts. (Looking at you, Hawaii and Japan!) No matter where Uncle Sam sends you, your pets are counting on you to have a plan.
When I was in Japan, the new unit handed me an emergency preparedness box that included probably everything you could think of if a bad typhoon or tsunami hit Japan. It wasn’t until then that I realized we probably should always have one on hand for each different climate I live in…even though I knew hurricanes and tornados do happen because I grew up with them.
The good news? Building a pet emergency kit is easier than you think!
Here’s what should make the cut:
• 3–7 days of food and bottled water
• Any medications your pet takes
• Vaccination records, microchip information, and your veterinarian’s contact information
• A leash, harness, or carrier that’s ready to grab and go
• A favorite toy or blanket (because emergencies are stressful enough)
• Basic first aid supplies or a kit with like gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, bandages, and disposable gloves
• Waste bags, litter, or a small portable litter box
• A recent photo of your pet, just in case you ever become separated.
The best part? Once you put it together, you will hopefully never need it. But if an evacuation order, severe storm, wildfire, or other emergency pops up, you will be glad you planned ahead.
A Little Bonus…
Speaking of pet emergency kits… Military Pet Club is currently giving members the chance to
enter in to win a Pet First Aid Kit through one of our sweepstakes! It is just one of the many fun perks of being a free member, along with exclusive savings, resources, giveaways, and more designed specifically for military pet families.
Whether you are weathering hurricanes on the East Coast, wildfire season in California, snowstorms up north, or island life in Hawaii or Japan, being prepared helps keep every member of the family, especially the four-legged ones safe.
Stay ready, stay safe, and do not forget to give your furry adventure buddy an extra treat for being the best travel companion around.
