Safety
Pet Emergency Kit Essentials: What Actually Goes in a 72-Hour Go-Bag
By Missy Zipperer • April 14, 2025 • 6 min read
The exact items I keep in my clients’ pet go-bags across Texas hurricane season — nothing fluffy, nothing missing.
I’ve packed evacuation bags for clients twice in the last three hurricane seasons. Here’s the checklist I stick to — every item earns its space.
72-hour pet go-bag checklist
- 3 days of food in a sealed bag
- Collapsible bowl + 1 gallon water
- Medications + copies of prescriptions
- Leash + backup harness
- Photo of pet + printed vet records
- Microchip ID & insurance info
- Sanitation bags / small litter tray
- Comfort item (blanket, familiar toy)
Where to store it
One bag near the front door, one in the car. Rotate food every 3 months so it never goes stale.
Recommendation
Emergency crate, harness & collapsible bowls
Benefits
- Airline-approved crates
- Reflective leashes for night evacs
- Collapsible bowls that fit in any bag
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Written by Missy Zipperer, a working Texas pet sitter. This article is informational only and is not veterinary advice — always consult your vet.