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Pet Preparedness Month: What to Pack in an Emergency Kit for Your Dog

Disasters don’t wait. Whether it's wildfire season, unexpected storms, floods, or evacuation alerts, having a plan in place for your dog can make a stressful situation safer and easier for everyone.

June is Pet Preparedness Month, and we’re using this time to help our community get ready for the unexpected. Creating a dog-specific emergency kit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A little planning now can bring a lot of peace of mind later.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive checklist of what to include in a dog emergency kit, along with real tips from our ambassador team and their own trail-tested prep routines.

Why Emergency Planning Matters for Dogs

In a crisis, your dog will look to you for safety and direction. But shelters may not allow pets. Roads may close. Water or power could be out for days. Having a portable kit and a basic plan means you can act quickly, confidently, and compassionately even in the chaos.

Preparedness isn’t fear-based. It’s care-based. It’s part of loving your dog well.

Dog Emergency Kit Essentials

Keep your kit in a waterproof bin or backpack, and store it near your go-bag or in your car if you're in a high-risk area. If space allows, pack a separate bag for each dog in your home.

1. Shelf-Stable Food (3–7 Days Worth)

  • Choose foods that require no refrigeration and have a long shelf life.

  • Freeze-dried meals like Ruff Food are ideal, lightweight, nutrient-dense, and easy to rehydrate.

  • Don’t forget a collapsible bowl and spoon.

  • Make sure it is a food your dog is used to to prevent any digestive issues.

2. Water and Filtration

  • 1 gallon of water per dog per day (at least 3 days’ worth).

  • Collapsible water bowl or bottle with a built-in dispenser.

  • Bonus: a water filter or purification tablets in case clean water runs out.

3. Collar, Leash, and Backup Restraints

  • Include a sturdy leash, backup slip lead, and an extra collar or harness.

  • ID tags should be current and legible. Consider adding a GPS tag if your area is prone to evacuations.

4. Muzzle

  • Even the gentlest dogs can panic during a disaster. A well-fitted muzzle protects everyone during high-stress moments and may be required at shelters or by transport teams.

  • Tip: Make sure your dog is muzzle-trained just in case. An injured or frightened dog may bite even if they have no bite history. Making sure they are comfortable with the muzzle before it's needed can prevent added stress.

5. Medications and Supplements

  • Pack a 1–2 week supply of any necessary prescriptions.

  • Include calming support or digestion support if your dog is prone to stress-related symptoms.

  • Pro tip: Ruff Bar herbal blends can be portioned into travel containers or sealed pouches.

6. Vaccination Records and Vet Info

  • Keep a printed copy in a waterproof sleeve and a digital copy on your phone.

  • Include your vet’s name, phone number, and any known medical conditions.

7. First Aid Supplies

  • Gauze, vet wrap, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, tick remover, scissors, gloves, and Benadryl (with dosage instructions from your vet).

  • A slip lead can double as an emergency muzzle or harness.

8. Sanitation Supplies

  • Poop bags, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and pee pads.

  • Trash bags or odor-sealing bags if you need to pack waste out.

9. Comfort and Familiarity

  • A favorite toy, small blanket, or worn T-shirt with your scent can reduce stress.

  • Pack something that reminds them of home.

10. Photos of Your Dog

  • Printed and digital.

  • Include clear shots of your dog and one of you together in case you’re separated and need to prove ownership.

Final Tips for Preparedness

  • Practice your evacuation plan with your dog. Try loading into the car quickly or crating on command.

  • Rotate food and water every 6 months to keep it fresh.

  • Label your kit clearly so others can grab it in an emergency.

  • Keep your phone charged and have a backup power bank.

  • Stay calm. Dogs follow your lead.

Preparedness Is an Act of Love

Being ready doesn’t mean you expect the worst. It means you’re showing up for your dog the way they show up for you, fully, consistently, and without hesitation.

Whether it’s fire season, hurricane prep, or just a long road trip far from home, we hope this guide helps you feel more confident in your ability to care for your dog through it all.

Want to see what other Ruff Bar pack members are doing to stay prepared? Follow us on Instagram and tag us @ruffbar with your emergency kit setups. We’d love to share.

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