Is Your Pup's Go-Bag Ready?

On January 7, 2025, the Palisades Fire tore through the community of dogs and humans that have been an integral part of my life for over a decade. I will never forget that day, driving into the Palisades to drop off a canine client and spotting the huge plume of smoke growing in the not-so-far distance. We had experienced wildfires here before but this one felt different. It was close, you could see the flames, it was big, and the winds were unlike anything I had experienced before. I dropped off the pup and noted the fire in the distance to his human.

I then went to another client's house, where we had a veterinary appointment for both Chance and their pups. We kept an eye on the fire as it crept towards us, and when it was too close for comfort we made the decision to evacuate right as the evacuation orders were beginning. I helped my client get the food, meds, and crates together for their dogs (and cat), loaded them all into the car, and headed south. Little did we know that the days ahead would bring tragedy after tragedy, and the community we lived and worked in, and loved, would be forever changed. We were lucky; all my pups and their humans evacuated safely. But some would later find out that they had lost their home and others would be displaced for months and possibly years.

While I am not sure anyone can be fully prepared for an emergency like this, I cannot stress enough how important it is to do your best to try. Having emergency pet food, crates, and supplies in place didn't just give us a little peace of mind, it also saved us time.

It's always a good idea to look over our own emergency kits and make sure they are up to date, but what about for our furry companions? If you don't have a separate emergency kit ready to go for your pup, I encourage you to make one asap.

What to have ready

• A record of vaccinations and vet information

• A current photo and description of your pet in case you get separated

• Your pet's microchip number - It is the easiest way to be reunited with your pet

• Updated tags

• Medications for your pet

• A portable crate

• Portable bowls

• Food and water for at least 72 hrs; a two week supply is ideal.

• A favorite stuffed animal, enrichment toy, and blanket for comfort

• Pet First Aid Kit

• Canine face mask

• An extra leash

• Poop bags

Also consider boots for their paws in the case of an earthquake, a lifejacket if you live in a flood or hurricane prone area, a soft muzzle in the case of panic or injury, and cleaning supplies .

You can also Download the Red Cross Pet First Aid App for access to quick tips if your pup has been injured during the emergency but this is never a substitute for veterinary care..

Make a plan for your pet

Most importantly, don't forget to make a plan for your animals in case of emergency. Have a neighbor or friend agree ahead of time to evacuate your pets if you can't get to them. You may not be home when an emergency occurs and time is of the essence. Know which local hotels are pet friendly, as well as nearby boarding facilities, veterinarians, friends, or family that can take them in the event that you have to separate.

-Charlotte Bayne is the founder of The Baroo, and has been caring for other peoples’ dogs in Pacific Palisades, Ca for more than a decade. She specializes in helping clients become more mindful about their pets' needs, and supports them in making sustainable choices to benefit their pets, family, and world. She lives in Los Angeles with her rescue dog, Chance.