10 Must-Haves for a Dog Bug Out Bag: Prepare for Any Emergency
Wellness

10 Must-Haves for a Dog Bug Out Bag: Prepare for Any Emergency

Travel with pet concept with dog with backpack

Last updated on February 14th, 2025 at 12:17 am

Let’s face it. The world can be an unpredictable place. Preppers often talk about being ready for “SHTF” (when sh** hits the fan), but have you thought about what your dog will need in such situations? Natural disasters, civil unrest, and other unforeseen events can force us to evacuate quickly. While we humans may have our own bug-out bags prepared, what about our pets?

In this blog post, I will discuss what a bug-out bag is, why dogs need one, and what should be included to ensure your pup is prepared for any emergency. I’ll also link a cat bug-out bag list you can download!

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What is a Bug Out Bag?

A bug-out bag is a collection of essential supplies you can grab quickly in an emergency and evacuate with. It should contain everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours on your own.

Every pet and person in the household should have its own bag of survival supplies to last at least 3 days. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that every person have a 72 hour pack, or Go-bag ready for emergencies. 

Local authorities and first responders will be on the scene after a disaster but they will not be able to reach everyone immediately. 

Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, and sewage treatment may be cut off for days, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages because you might be on your own for a while.

Why Does Your Dog Need a Bug Out Bag?

Extreme weather events and natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, and floods- can happen without much notice (if any). That means you may have to up and head for safety fast.

Then there are things like long-term power or water outages that could also force you to find somewhere else to crash for a while.

And let’s not forget about environmental hazards like chemical spills or gas leaks—you definitely don’t want to stick around for those. Even things like civil unrest could mean you need to hunker down or leave town quickly.

Plus, with health crises or pandemics, you might need to isolate or relocate to keep everyone, including your dog(s), safe. Even something as simple as a car breaking down on a road trip could leave you scrambling for their’s stuff. Basically, you just never know!

dog walking in flood disaster

10 Things to Pack in a Dog Bug Out Bag

Here’s a list of must-have items to include in your dog’s kit, so you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

  1. Dog Back Pack
    Dog saddle pack comes with two expandable side pockets, multiple inner pockets, poop bag dispenser. The dog backpack is lightweight and holds all dog supplies and essentials so you can maximize your adventure with your best friend!
  2. Collapsible Food and Water Bowls
    Portable, lightweight, and easy to clean, these are essential for feeding and hydrating your dog on the go.
  3. Dog Food and Treats
    Pack a 3-day supply of your dog’s regular food in resealable, waterproof bags. Don’t forget some high-value treats for comfort and training. Consider a nutritional paste that comes in a tube called Nutri-Cal or freeze-dried pet food (which can last up to a year).
  4. First Aid Kit
    A pet-specific first aid kit is critical. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, styptic powder, tweezers, and any medications your dog is on.
  5. Leash, Harness,  Collar, and waste bags
    Pack an extra leash and harness, along with a collar with updated ID tags. Reflective options are great for nighttime visibility.  Pack plenty of pet waste bags for cleanup during potty breaks. Biodegradable options are eco-friendly.
  6. Vaccination and Medical Records
    Store copies of your dog’s medical records in a waterproof folder, including vaccination history and microchip information. This most likely will need to go in YOUR bug out bag because it’s too big to fit in a dog’s.
  7. Comfort Items
    Emergencies can be stressful. Pack a familiar toy, blanket, or an item that smells like you to reduce anxiety.
  8. Dog-Safe Insect Repellent
    Protect your dog from ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes with a vet-approved insect repellent.
  9. Booties or Paw Protection
    Rough terrain, debris, and hot surfaces can injure your dog’s paws. Booties or paw balm can prevent injuries.
  10. Identification – Include a copy of your dog’s vaccination records and a current color photograph of you and your pet together (in case you are separated). Consider getting your pet microchipped for added security. 

dog carrying a dog bug out bag on its back

Extras You Might Forget

Here are a few additional items to consider for your dog’s bug-out bag:

  • Towel or drying cloth for wet or muddy situations.
  • LED lights to attach to your dog’s collar for visibility at night.
  • Flea and Tick medications.
  • A whistle can be helpful for locating your dog if they get separated.
  • Waterproof matches or a lighter for starting fires for warmth or cooking (if necessary).
  • A small roll of duct tape can be used for repairs, securing items, and even providing temporary shelter.
  • Small can opener for canned food

 

 

Be Ready: Download Your Free Printables

To help you get started, download our free printable Dog Bug Out Bag list. While you’re at it, check out our other free printables, like a Dog First Aid Kit Checklist and a Pet Emergency Contact Sheet to keep all your pet’s important information organized and accessible.

By preparing a well-stocked dog bug out bag, you can ensure their safety and well-being during any emergency. Remember, even in the face of chaos, your furry friend deserves the best possible care.

DOWNLOAD the CAT Bug Out Bag Checklist HERE

Are you ready to build your dog bug-out bag? Share your tips or must-have items in the comments below!

Additional Resources:

Federal Emergency Management Agency – Preparedness Tips

The PETS Act

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Based on 3 ratings

Reviewed by 3 users

    • 3 weeks ago

    This is really great advice. I wouldn’t bring my little dog but if I had a big dog, I would definitely bring them along.

    • 3 weeks ago

    Love it

    This is a cool idea, especially when taking out favourite friends on longer adventures with us. My pooch loves his long adventures.

    • 4 weeks ago

    Excellent advice

    This is such great advice. I hadn’t considered a dog emergency bag, but will definitely be putting one together now.

    Thanks for the handy tips!

      • 3 weeks ago

      You’re welcome!
      Dr. Gina

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