Emergency Go Bag 101: People and Pets

Emergency Go Bag 101: People and Pets.

A Dual-Purpose Go Bag Strategy

I’ve written about emergency preparedness and pets over the years.
See Pet Emergency Preparedness Tips

ASPCA Disaster Preparedness Pets Infographic

And recently Cat Fire Safety: Emergency Guide For Pet Owners

I’ve now developed a comprehensive approach to creating a go bag that meets the needs of both you and your feline companion. The key is integration, efficiency, and thoughtful preparation.

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Go Bag Basics
– One primary bag (waterproof, durable)
– Lightweight but robust
– Easy to carry
– Divided compartments for human and cat essentials

Shared Compartment Essentials

Critical Documents (Waterproof Folder/Bag)

Human Documents:
– Government-issued ID
– Passport
– Social Security card
– Insurance cards
– Medical records
– Emergency contact list
– Copy of credit/debit cards
– Cash (small and large denominations)

Cat Documents:
– Veterinary records
– Microchip information
– Vaccination certificates
– Recent photographs
– Medical history
– Medication prescriptions

Communication and Navigation

– Fully charged smartphone
– Portable battery pack/solar charger
– Emergency battery-powered radio
– Waterproof notebook and pen
– Laminated emergency contact card
– Local area map
– Small whistle for signaling

Personal Health Compartment

Human First Aid Kit

– Prescription medications (7-day supply)
– Pain relievers
– Bandages
– Antiseptic wipes
– Tweezers
– Small scissors
– Thermal emergency blanket
– N95 masks
– Hand sanitizer
– Compact first aid manual

Feline First Aid Additions

– Cat-specific first aid kit
– Feline pain medication
– Liquid electrolyte solution
– Small towel
– Soft muzzle
– Compact cat carrier/bag
– Disposable gloves
– Tick/flea removal tools

Nutrition and Hydration

Human Provisions:
– 3-day water supply (1 gallon per person per day)
– High-energy, non-perishable food
* Energy bars
* Dried fruits
* Nuts
* Compact meal replacement packets
– Water purification tablets
– Compact water filter
– Lightweight cooking kit
– Utensils

Feline Nutrition
– Dry cat food (vacuum-sealed)
– Wet food packets
– Compact, collapsible food/water bowls
– Portable water filtration system
– Electrolyte powder for cats
– Treats (for comfort and motivation)

Clothing and Protection

Human Clothing

– Change of moisture-wicking clothes
– Lightweight rain jacket
– Sturdy walking shoes
– Extra socks
– Lightweight gloves
– Wide-brimmed hat
– Compact thermal layers

Feline Comfort Items

– Lightweight cat harness
– Compact cat blanket
– Small towel
– Cooling bandana
– Protective booties (for rough terrain)

Survival and Comfort Tools

Multi-Purpose Tools:
– Swiss Army knife or multi-tool
– Paracord (15-20 feet)
– Duct tape
– Zip ties
– Emergency light sticks
– Waterproof matches
– Compact emergency shelter
– Emergency thermal blanket

Stress Management

– Small comfort item
– Portable charger
– Headlamp
– Small entertainment (deck of cards)
– Stress relief items
– Cat pheromone spray
– Compact cat toy

Technology and Tracking

Identification and Safety:
– Backup power bank
– Portable GPS device
– Pet tracking device
– Spare phone charger
– Compact solar charger
– Emergency contact information
– Medical information card

Special Considerations

Customization Tips:
– Consider individual health needs
– Account for specific medications
– Adjust for climate and potential emergencies
– Update go bag every 6 months
– Rotate food and medication supplies

Weight Management
– Total bag weight: 15-20 pounds
– Distribute weight evenly
– Practice carrying the bag
– Use wheeled options if mobility is limited

Psychological Preparedness

Mental Health Essentials

– Small notebook for journaling
– Compact meditation guide
– Stress relief items
– Photos of loved ones
– Comfort item for cat
– Familiar blanket or toy

Pro Tip: Practice periodic go bag drills with your cat to reduce stress during actual emergencies.

Storage and Maintenance

– Store in cool, dry place
– Use airtight, waterproof containers
– Check contents bi-annually
– Replace expired items
– Vacuum-seal when possible
– Keep bag easily accessible

Final Survival Wisdom: Your go bag is more than a collection of items—it’s a lifeline of preparedness, comfort, and survival for both you and your feline companion.

Prepared with love, packed with purpose but I hope you never have need for one!

Love, Layla