Natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, and storms can strike without warning, leaving families scrambling to ensure their safety. For pet owners, this means not only preparing for their own evacuation but also ensuring their pets are ready for emergencies.
With the recent wildfires in Los Angeles (LA) and the possibility of disastrous events in British Columbia (BC), such as earthquakes and wildfires, it caused damage to thousands of homes and displaced hundreds of animals. It is heartbreaking to see families losing their homes and not knowing whether their furry friends have survived. Hundreds of animals are now at the Pasadena Humane Society, where they are unable to be reunited with their guardians. Our thoughts and prayers go out for these families and their furry companions.
Table of Contents
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
A well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference during an evacuation. Include these essentials:
- Food and Water: A 7-day supply of food and bottled water, along with bowls and a manual can opener if needed.
- Medications: Ensure you have enough for at least a week, along with copies of your pet’s medical records.
- Identification: A microchip with updated registration information is vital. Include a collar with tags as a backup.
- Comfort Items: Bring blankets, toys, and bedding to reduce stress.
- Hygiene Supplies: Waste bags, litter boxes, and cleaning supplies for your pet’s needs.
- Travel Gear: Leashes, harnesses, and carriers for safe and easy transport.
Have an Evacuation Plan
When every moment counts, a detailed evacuation plan can save valuable time.
- Locate Pet-Friendly Shelters: Research shelters or hotels in your area that accept pets.
- Prepare for Quick Departures: Keep carriers and leashes accessible for fast evacuations.
- Train your pets to be comfortable in a carrier, kennel: Conduct practice evacuations to familiarize them with the process and reduce stress.

In moments of crisis, being prepared is key. For more tips on handling emergencies with pets, check out our blog on How to Keep Pets Safe During Emergencies.
Ensure Your Pet Has Proper Identification

Identification is crucial during disasters when pets may become separated from their families.
- Microchipping Matters: A registered microchip is a permanent ID that links your pet to you. Ensure the information is up to date in a trusted database like BC Pet Registry.
- Collars and Tags: These provide a quick way for someone to identify your pet but are not a replacement for a microchip.
Real-Life Example: Toba’s Reunion
Toba, separated from their family during a storm, was reunited thanks to their registered microchip. A kind stranger brought Toba to a vet clinic where the chip was scanned, and the family was quickly contacted. Read Toba’s full story.
Leverage Resources Like BC Pet Registry and PreparedBC

BC Pet Registry works with organizations like PreparedBC to provide pet owners with valuable resources for disaster planning. Their Pet Emergency Plan Guide offers practical checklists and tips for keeping pets safe.
By registering your pet’s microchip with BC Pet Registry, you ensure their information is accessible to shelters and veterinarians across Canada, increasing the likelihood of a reunion.
Stay Informed and Connected
Staying updated during emergencies is critical to making informed decisions.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to local emergency alerts to stay informed about evacuation orders.
- Follow Official Channels: Rely on trusted sources like PreparedBC for timely updates.
- Prepare Communication Tools: Ensure your phone is charged and have backup power sources ready.
Be a Part of the 80% Responsible Owners
During our recent events, we scanned hundreds of pets, all with microchips implanted. Only to discover that approximately 20% of the pets’ microchips are not linked to any registries in North America. We recommend all pet owners to double check their pet’s registration and directly registering with us. All you need is the microchip number and/or tattoo code to start the online registration process. For a small, one-time fee of $45, your pet will be protected for a lifetime and you will also have contributed to the life-saving work of the BC SPCA.
Conclusion
Natural disasters are unpredictable, but being prepared can make all the difference for your pets. From creating an emergency kit and evacuation plan to registering your pet’s microchip, each step you take ensures their safety and well-being.
Take action today! Visit BC Pet Registry to register your pet’s microchip or update their information. Don’t forget to explore PreparedBC’s Pet Emergency Plan for additional guidance. Together, we can keep our pets safe during any crisis.
FAQ
Q. What should I include in a pet emergency kit?
A pet emergency kit should include food, water, medications, hygiene supplies, and comfort items. Don’t forget identification like microchip registration and collar tags.
Q. How can I ensure my pet’s microchip is registered?
After microchipping, register the chip in a secure database like BC Pet Registry. This links your contact information to the chip, enabling quick identification if your pet is found.
Q. Are indoor pets at risk during disasters?
Yes. Indoor pets can escape during emergencies such as fires or floods. Microchipping and having an evacuation plan are essential safeguards.
Q. Can BC Pet Registry help during wildfires?
Absolutely! BC SPCA helps with emergency boarding, pet supplies or pet food during. We also have ready to deploy Animal Protection Officers as needed. Our officers will assist animals that have been left behind due to evacuation notices.
Q. Where can I find more resources on pet emergency preparedness?
Visit PreparedBC’s Pet Emergency Plan Guide for detailed checklists and tips.
Q. How can I update my pet’s microchip information?
Log into your account on BC Pet Registry to update your details. Keeping your contact information current is crucial for quick reunions.