In the wake of a devastating natural disaster, my heart breaks for those who have lost so much, but like many of you, am heartbroken by the amount of cats and dogs that are abandoned because their owners could not take them in their evacuation. Hundreds of thousands of pets were abandoned during Hurricane Katrina, largely because first respondents were not permitted or unable to take cats and dogs. Legislation has since changed requiring house pets to be rescued with their owners, but being prepared to “bug out” with animals in an emergency situation is an invaluable resource during those times. Bugging out just means leaving a potentially dangerous situation for a safe one. This could be a nearing hurricane, a tornado, a house fire, etc.

I live in Seattle, and am always wondering when “the big one” will hit. I know that I could never leave Lucy, my 12-year-old rottie mix, behind. She has stuck with me through everything, and if such an emergency would occur, I want us both to be prepared.

In My Dog’s Bug Out Bag –

  • A lightweight collapsible bowl that can be used for both food and water
  • A bag of dehydrated food, such as, Northwest Naturals. Something that is quality and will last out of the refrigerater
  • Small sealed water packets from Emergency Essentials.
  • A photo of you and your pet with your name and contact info written on the back, sealed in a ziplock bag
  • Copies of important documents in a sealed baggie: i.e. vet records, medications, allergies
  • A leash and collar
  • treats or a favorite toy that will calm them in a stressful situation
  • Any supplements that your animal will need in an emergency. Many needed calming, some react with gastro intestinal issues, some allergies may flair up. I, of course, use Vitality Science products. I have my favorites listed below

Bugging Out with a Cat –

Bugging out with a cat is going to be a little different. Their emergency supplies should be kept in their carrier. In addition to what is listed above

  • Have a shoe box lined with a plastic bag to use as a temporary litter box
  • Several ziplock bags of litter
  • A pillow case that they can use as a blanket or you can carry them in it, if needed.

bugging out

My Father, Stephen Becker, the founder of Vitality Science has always told me “don’t wait until you are thirsty to dig a well”. Be prepared. Take care of you and your animal no matter what situation may occur.

 Vitality science products I recommend for a cat or dog’s bug out bag and why –

Vitality Science Pet Flora, Probiotics, that will benefit both you and your pet if they eat something that may be contaminated and make them sick.

Luxolite, this will reduce acidity caused by stress and soothe the stomach.

ASAP Pet Shield: This is beneficial for any lacerations, abrasions, 1st or 2nd degree burns, skin irritations or insect bites that may happen during the evacuation. It will rid the wound of e-coli, MRSA and VRE, Fungi and reduce itching immediately.

Soothing Solution, keeping your pet calm in any emergency situation will be a benefit for you and them.