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Plan for your pets

It’s important to consider what will happen to our pets in the event of a flood or natural disaster.

This means thinking about what plans you can put in place now to make sure your pet is cared for if you were unable to get home, or what you would do with your pet if you had to evacuate.

The Get Ready Queensland website outlines considerations for your pet, how to include your pet in your emergency and evacuation plan, and packing a pet emergency kit.

Considerations for your pet

  • If evacuation is required during a disaster, taking your pet with you or relocating your pet to an alternative location is the best way to protect them. Make a plan for where you could take them, keeping in mind that pets may not be allowed in evacuation shelters unless they are a service animal. Check with family and friends who live outside your local area to see if they would be able to look after your pets if you needed to evacuate. If moving animals to a safer place, do so early to avoid unnecessary risk and ensure they have access to plenty of food and water.
  • Have contingencies or arrangements in place for transporting animals in emergencies. This extends to livestock where access to horse floats and trucks should be considered.
  • In the event you are unable to get home during a natural disaster, pre-arrange with friends who live close by or neighbours for them to collect and care for your pets at their place until you are able to return or be reunited.
  • Have your pet microchipped and registered with your local council. Have them wear a collar with up-to-date contact information and identification at all times.
  • Have a pet emergency kit (see below) ready to go to save you time during emergencies.
  • If you have to leave your pets behind, leave them indoors (if possible) and place pets in separate rooms with small or preferably no windows e.g. the bathroom. Provide adequate food and water in large heavy bowls. If left outside do not tie them up. When you have to wait out a severe weather event at home identify a safe area where you can all stay together e.g. bathroom or laundry and secure animals in plenty of time so they don’t take flight.
  • Talk to your vet about any special considerations for your pet.

Pet emergency kit

  • Food and bottled water for at least five days – include feeding bowls and a can opener.
  • Medicines with clear instructions, medical records and first aid.
  • Blankets, bedding or nesting material.
  • Favourite toys that bring comfort.
  • Vaccination, registration and current photos of you and your pet.
  • Collar with ID tag, harness or leash.
  • Birds and pocket pets need shelter coverage for their enclosure.
  • Have carry boxes (for smaller pets), leads (for dogs) and halters (for livestock) readily accessible.
  • Litter tray, litter, waste bags and cleaning products.
  • Contact details for your veterinarian, local animal shelter, local council and alternative animal accommodation facility.
  • Evidence that your pet is a service animal and appropriately trained to access public areas.
  • Consider whether pet insurance is right for you and have relevant paperwork in your emergency kit.

More information and resources

Last updated:
26 February 2024
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