When disaster strikes, it’s not just humans who need safe access to food and water—our pets do, too. Dogs, cats, and other animals rely completely on us to plan ahead so they stay nourished and hydrated during an emergency. Whether you’re preparing for a short power outage, a wildfire evacuation, or a long-term crisis, knowing how to store food and water for pets can give you peace of mind and keep your furry family members safe.

Being prepared doesn’t just mean survival—it means comfort and security for your pets. Emergencies are stressful enough, and pets can pick up on our anxiety. Having supplies ready reduces uncertainty and makes transitions smoother if you need to evacuate quickly.

Emergencies often come with little to no warning, which means grabbing everything on the spot can lead to forgetting important items. By preparing ahead of time, you eliminate stress in the moment and know your dog has what they need. Think of this bag as your pet’s peace-of-mind kit, something that will serve you both in a moment of chaos.

Here are 10 must-have items to pack in your dog’s emergency bag so you can act quickly and with confidence.

When an emergency strikes, most of us immediately think about our family’s safety, food, and shelter. But if you’re a pet owner, your dog or cat is family too—and their needs can’t be an afterthought. A pet emergency kit ensures that your furry friend has the essentials to stay safe, fed, and cared for no matter what happens.