How to Create a Senior Pet Emergency Plan
Emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time. And when you have a senior pet, time is often even more critical. Whether it’s a health crisis, natural disaster, or simply needing to leave your pet with a sitter, having a plan in place can give you peace of mind—and could save your pet’s life.
Here’s how to build an emergency plan tailored to your senior dog or cat.
🔎 1. Build a Pet Emergency Binder
Keep this somewhere easy to grab (or share a digital version with loved ones).
Include:
Your vet’s name, clinic, and phone number
Emergency and specialty hospital contacts
A copy of recent medical records
Diagnosis list and current medications (name, dose, frequency)
Supplement list and diet details
Allergies, fears, or special care instructions
End-of-life preferences, DNR status if applicable
⛺️ 2. Create a Go-Bag or Emergency Kit
Pack essentials in a small bin or backpack:
A few days of medications and supplements (rotate monthly)
Food, treats, collapsible bowls, water
Towels or pee pads
Extra leash, harness, ID tags
Waste bags or litter supplies
Familiar toy or blanket
Mobility aid (if needed)
⌂️ 3. Prepare for In-Home Health Emergencies
Senior pets are more likely to experience sudden issues like collapse, seizures, difficulty breathing, or confusion.
Know:
Where your closest ER vet is and how to get there quickly
Signs that warrant immediate care vs. watchful waiting
How to safely transport your pet (towel sling, stretcher, etc.)
When to stop home care and head to a clinic
🌍 4. Set Up a Sitter & Evacuation Plan
Whether you’re away for a weekend or dealing with a fire or flood, your pet needs backup.
Write out clear instructions for any pet sitter, including how to give meds
Leave contact info and vet details in a visible spot
have a payment method for emergencies in place - I have a CareCredit card on file at my local ER and leave the card with the petsitter just incase
Know where you can go with your pet if you need to evacuate
Keep a carrier accessible for cats or small dogs
📄 Bonus: Download the Printable Checklist
We created a printable Senior Pet Emergency Plan Checklist by signing up to our newsletter to make this easier. Stick it on your fridge, hand it to your sitter, or take it with you to the vet.
Planning ahead doesn’t mean expecting the worst—it means protecting your pet when it matters most. And when your pet is a senior, those extra steps can make all the difference.
Written by Dr. Amanda Steffen, DVM – Integrative Veterinarian for Senior Dogs & Cats
