If an emergency arises while you’re traveling with your pet, you’ll want to be ready. Your dog or cat might become ill and need to visit a local animal hospital. Or, you might need to evacuate, for example due to a fire or weather emergency. These tips can help.

Carry your important pet health records

• Proof of vaccination
• Key health records
• Copies of current prescriptions
• Information about any known allergies
• Phone number for your vet

Pack health-related items your pet may need

• Medications and preventatives (e.g., tick treatment) – bring enough for an extra week, in case your return is delayed
• Written instructions for medications and feeding, in case someone else needs to care for your pet
• Pet first aid kit

Make evacuation easy by keeping these items handy

• Leash and/or crate – keep these by the door so you can secure pets before leaving your room in an emergency
• Collapsible water bowl and water – so you have hydration for pets if you have to shelter in place temporarily
• Waterproof bag with your pet health records and medications inside
• Photo of you and your pet for proof of ownership

Consider a pet emergency card

• If something happened to you while away from your hotel, carrying a wallet pet emergency card can alert authorities that you have a pet waiting for you.
• Download an example at bit.ly/PetEmergencyCards and while traveling, be sure to write your hotel information on the card (rather than your home).