I have to admit that I had never given the topic much consideration until recently being evacuated from my home due to wildfires. When I realized that we were probably going to be evacuated, it hit me – “What about the dogs?” Our family includes Gizmo (the house dog), Blueberry (outdoor dog) and Skeeter (Blueberry's companion outdoors). I knew I could take Gizmo with us to stay with my brother's family, but that wouldn't work for the big girls outside. Fortunately when I frantically stopped by our groomers place, they had just enough boarding room open for Blue and Skeeter. So, we were all away from home for two days, and then fortunate to have a home to return to. I learned after the whole ordeal that our local SPCA was offering free shelter for dogs and cats evacuated due to the fires, but of course I had already agreed to pay a kennel to keep two large dogs for two days and nights. I wish I had known in advance what my options were. So now I have done some research on emergency preparedness for dogs, and my recommendation is this:

Print the following list to keep with an evacuation kit for your dogs. Some of the things are easily gathered and kept in the kit, others you will probably need to gather quickly if you need to evacuate. So, if you keep the list handy, you won't forget anything critical at a time when you may not be thinking clearly.

___Large zip lock bag to contain your dog's medical records, vaccination records, license information, photograph of you with your pet (for identification purposes) and phone numbers of any emergency clinics or shelters you may use for your dog (be sure to research this in advance so you know your options.

___A two week supply of water, food and any necessary medications with dosing instructions.

___Bowls for food and water.

___Manual can opener if you use canned food.

___Leash and collar for each dog. Be sure ID tags are on them if your dog doesn't have a microchip.

___Crate and/or pet carrier labeled with your contact information.

___Pet beds or blankets.

___Dog toys and treats.

I hope you find this list helpful, and I also hope you never have to use it.