Promise to Prepare: Emergency planning for pet parents

When an emergency strikes, there’s no time to waste — and that includes making sure your furry family members are safe. That’s why the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, in partnership with the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, is encouraging pet parents to take part in Emergency Preparedness Week, happening May 5–11, by making a plan that includes their animals. 

From evacuation plans to survival kits, a little preparation goes a long way in protecting your whole family — paws included! 

Start with a plan 

Think about where you would go in an emergency and how you would bring your furry friends with you. Whether you need to shelter in place or evacuate, knowing what steps to take — and having supplies packed and ready — helps reduce stress during a crisis. 

Ask yourself: 

• Where would I take my animal if we had to leave suddenly? 

• How would I transport them? 

• What would I need to keep them safe and comfortable? 

Answering these questions ahead of time helps create a solid foundation for your emergency response plan. 

Build your pet’s emergency kit 

A survival kit ensures you have the essentials ready if you need to act quickly. It should include: 

• 72-hour supply of food and water 

• Blankets or towels 

• Litter box, waste bags, and cleaning supplies 

• Leash, collar, or harness 

• Carrier or crate 

• Any medications, plus vet contact info 

• Pet first aid kit 

• Photo ID of your pet and your contact details 

• Identification tags and microchip number 

Pack these items in a durable, waterproof container that’s easy to grab and go. It’s also a good idea to review the contents twice a year and refresh anything that may expire. 

Promise to Prepare 

Need help building your pet’s emergency kit? Take the Promise to Prepare to download our to free 72-hour Emergency Preparedness Workbook. You’ll also be entered to win one of 12 pet first aid kits. 

It’s a simple step that could make a big difference. 

Decals and wallet cards 

From May 1–10, stop by your local Ontario SPCA animal centre to pick up a free emergency decal and wallet card, while supplies last. The decal alerts first responders that pets may be inside your home, and the wallet card informs emergency personnel that animals may need care if you’re unable to return home. These small tools can help save lives in a crisis. 

Plan for the unexpected 

Emergencies can happen when you’re not home, or you could become separated from your pet during a crisis. That’s why it’s important to have a back-up plan in place. 

Talk to a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member who can step in to care for your furry friend if you’re unable to. Share keys, emergency contacts, and instructions for your animal’s care in advance – this buddy system can make all the difference. 

Also, make sure your pet is always wearing an up-to-date ID tag and is microchipped. Keep a recent photo and description of your animal handy in case you need to share it with shelters or emergency responders. 

A little planning now ensures your furry friend has the support they need when it matters most. 

Be ready to act 

If there’s advance notice of a natural disaster, like a wildfire or major storm, evacuate early with your animals if it’s safe to do so. Waiting too long may make it more difficult or even impossible to bring them with you. 

Know where local emergency shelters are, check whether they allow pets, and consider contacting friends or family outside your area in advance to ask if they could temporarily take your animals. 

Take action today 

You never know when an emergency might happen – but you can be ready. 

This Emergency Preparedness Week, make a plan, build a kit, and be sure your pets are included every step of the way. 

Don’t wait – visit ontariospca.ca/ep today to take the Promise to Prepare. You’ll receive a free digital 72-hour Emergency Preparedness Workbook and be entered to win a pet first aid kit. 

Your beloved animals are counting on you — let’s be ready, together.