Is Your Pet Ready for an Emergency? Build a Pet Bug-Out Bag for Disaster Preparedness Day

When disaster strikes, you might only have minutes to act. Whether it’s a wildfire, heavy smoke, or a fast-moving storm, your evacuation plan shouldn’t just cover your human family–it needs to include your pets too. That’s where a pet bug-out bag comes in.

If you’ve never heard of one, don’t worry. A bug-out bag is a ready-to-go emergency kit packed with supplies your dog or cat will need to survive and stay safe for at least 72 hours. Think of it like a go-bag for your pet. With wildfires and extreme weather events on the rise in Eastern Washington and North Idaho, having one ready could be lifesaving.

In honor of FEMA’s Disaster Preparedness Day (May 8), we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you build your pet’s bug-out bag that’s ready for the unexpected. We’ve also included quantities based on your pet’s size, species, and nutritional needs, so there’s no guesswork.

Why a Pet Bug-Out Bag Is Critical in the Inland Northwest

The Inland Northwest is no stranger to natural disasters. In recent years, wildfires, heavy smoke, blizzards, and prolonged power outages have forced thousands of families–including pet owners–to evacuate with little warning. If it’s not safe for you to stay, it’s not safe for your pets either.

Your pets rely on you to be prepared. Let’s make sure you are.

For Dogs: What to Pack and How Much

1. Kibble: Pre-Portioned by Size

Kibble is the ideal emergency food. It’s shelf-stable, easy to serve, and familiar to your pet, especially if you choose high-quality, digestible brands like Nutrisource, Fromm, or Acana, all available at Pawpular Companions.

Pack a 3-Day Supply:

• Small dog (<20 lbs): 4-5 cups

• Medium dog (20-50 lbs): 6-10 cups

• Large dog (50+ lbs): 10-15 cups

Pro Tip: Portion meals into labeled, resealable bags for each day. Vacuum sealing extends shelf life even further.

2. Water and Collapsible Bowls

Clean water is critical. Your dog needs at least 1 oz of water per pound of body weight per day.

Pack at Least…

• Small dog (<20 lbs): about 60 oz total (~½ gallon)

• Medium dog (20-50 lbs): about 150 oz (~1 ¼ gallon)

• Large dog (50+ lbs): about 250 oz (2 gallons)

Don’t Forget…

• 2 collapsible bowls (one for food, one for water)

• Water purification tablets or pet-safe filters as backup

3. Extra Leash, Collar, and Harness

Emergencies are stressful and disorienting. Include an extra leash, collar with ID tags, and a secure harness.

Food for Thought: Are your pet’s microchip and tags up to date? Doesn’t hurt to check.

4. Canine First Aid Kit

Every bug-out bag should have a basic first aid kit with…

• Pet-safe antiseptic

• Gauze and vet wrap

• Tweezers and blunt scissors

• Tick remover

• Saline rinse

• Any prescribed medications in a 3-7-day supply

• Brushes

• Nail trimmers

5. Comfort and Calming Supplies

Familiar items can reduce panic. Make sure your pet bug-out bag includes…

• 1-2 favorite toys

• Calming chews or treats (great options are available in-store)

• A small towel or blanket that smells like home

  
  

For Cats: What to Pack and How Much

1. Kibble: Pre-Portioned

Just like dogs, cats do best in emergencies when eating their usual food. Brands like Nutrisource and PureVita offer high-quality kibble that’s easy to pack and store.

Pack a 3-Day Supply:

• Most adult cats need about ¾-1 cup of kibble per day.

• Total: 2.5-3 cups

Pro Tip: Portion into daily snack-size bags. Cats are more likely to eat when portions are familiar and easy to serve.

2. Water and Collapsible Bowls

Cats need at least 4 oz of water per 5 lbs of body weight per day. You should pack at least 24 oz of water for 3 days.

Include…

• 2 collapsible bowls (one for food, one for water)

• Backup bottled water and a mini filter or purification

3. Secure Cat Carrier

A soft-sided but escape-proof carrier is non-negotiable. Ensure your cat is comfortable using it before an emergency.

Optional (but recommended): Practice carrier training monthly with treats and positive reinforcement. 

4. Disposable Litter System

No litter box? No problem. Be sure to pack…

• 1 disposable litter tray or compact foldable box

• 3-5 lbs of litter

• Litter scoop and waste bags

  
  

Pro Tip: Consider compressed litter bricks or lightweight paper options to save space.

5. First Aid and Flea/Tick Protection

Cats are sensitive, so your first aid kit should include…

• Styptic powder

• Pet-safe antiseptic

• Flea and tick preventative

• Any prescription medications in a 3-7-day supply

6. Comfort Items

Cats are prone to stress and may stop eating or hide if overwhelmed. Remember to pack…

• A small blanket or shirt that smells like you

• 1-2 familiar toys

• Natural calming treats or sprays (in stock at Pawpular Companions)

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Documents and Extras (For All Pets)

Every pet bug-out bag should also contain…

• Copies of vet records, including vaccinations

• Microchip number and registration

• Emergency contacts and a recent photo of your pet

• Any medications in labeled bags with dosing instructions

• Trash bags or poop bags

• Flashlight or headlamp

• A list of nearby pet-friendly hotels or shelters

  
  

Final Tip: Practice Makes Prepared

Once your bag is packed, don’t stop there:

• Practice loading your pet into their carrier

• Walk your dog with the harness you’ve packed

• Store your kit somewhere you can grab in under 30 seconds

Emergencies don’t wait–and neither should you.

Shop Local, Stay Ready

At Pawpular Companions, we’ve stocked everything you need to build the ultimate pet bug-out bag. From trusted food brands like Nutrisource, Fromm, and PureVita to collapsible bowls, disposable litter trays, and water solutions, our shelves are ready for your preparedness needs.

You’ll also find pet-safe first aid kits, calming chews, travel carriers, and essential hygiene supplies for both dogs and cats. Best of all, our knowledgeable team is here to help you customize your emergency kit based on your pet’s size, age, and specific health needs…so you can leave feeling confident and ready.

This May 8, Take the First Step

Disaster Preparedness Day is the perfect time to take action. Visit Pawpular Companions in Liberty Lake to get started on your pet’s bug-out bag. We’ll help you choose the right gear, so your pet is safe, calm, and cared for–no matter what comes your way.

Shop local. Be prepared. Protect your pets.