A Bug-Out Bag for Pets

DEAR PAW’S corner: As the U.S. enters the most active period of the year for hurricanes, it’s important to make sure we’re prepared in case a storm strikes. My husband and I have prepared a backpack for each of us and a duffel bag with supplies for our dog and cat. We can grab these three bags on our way out the door if we have to evacuate to a safer area. Please share this tip with your readers: Preparing a bug-out bag for your pets is important no matter what part of the country you live in. -- Carl in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

DEAR CARL: That’s fantastic advice, and thank you for sharing it. Keeping a bug-out bag ready for yourself and your pets can spell the difference between comfort and disaster.

Find a comprehensive guide to preparing pets for disasters at ready.gov/pets. It offers additional recommendations like microchipping pets in case they get separated from you.

Prepare a bug-out bag for each pet. If you use a single large duffel like Carl and his husband, separate each pet’s supplies with a piece of cardboard or in different packing cubes. Items should include:

-- Food and treats. Include enough for three days.

-- Sanitation supplies. A small bag of cat litter, waste pickup bags and pee pads.

-- First aid kit and medications. Include a seven-day supply; accessing medicine may be much harder than finding more food for pets.

-- Essential records. Make copies of records like vaccinations. Store them in a waterproof bag and include a photo of yourself and your pets.

-- Extra collar, leash and ID tags.

-- Toys and bedding. These provide comfort and familiarity for

pets.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@ pawscorner.com.