How to Build the Ultimate Pet Go-Bag (Without Forgetting the Essentials)

June 2, 2025

When disaster strikes, the last thing you want to do is scramble to gather supplies for your dog. Whether you're evacuating ahead of a hurricane, heading off-grid, or just hitting the road for an extended trip, your dog deserves the same level of preparedness as the rest of the family.

That means having a dedicated pet go-bag—a pre-packed emergency kit filled with everything your pup needs to stay safe, healthy, and comfortable. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials, offer tips from FEMA, and show you how to build a dog go-bag that covers all the bases. Plus, we’ll show you how the SpotOn GPS Fence can make a huge difference when you need it most.

Why Your Dog Needs a Go-Bag

Dogs are creatures of habit, and disasters disrupt everything familiar. Between stress, strange environments, and limited resources, your dog will rely on you more than ever. A pet go-bag ensures you have everything on hand to provide comfort, structure, and safety—without wasting precious time. FEMA recommends building a pet-specific emergency kit tailored to your animal’s needs. This includes basics like food and water, as well as medications, grooming items, and crucial identification materials.

The Pet Go-Bag Essentials

Here’s what to include in your dog’s go-bag:

Several days’ worth of food in airtight, waterproof packaging
Water and a collapsible bowl
Prescription medications in a labeled, waterproof container
Vaccination records and medical history, printed and digital
Leash, collar with ID tag, and an extra harness
Waste bags and basic sanitation supplies (like paper towels and trash bags)
Familiar items: favorite toys and blankets to reduce stress
Crate or sturdy travel carrier
Photo of you and your pets: as a keepsake and to help with identification if seperated

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Bonus Gear That Can Save the Day

While the basics are essential, there are a few bonus items that can give you a serious edge in a high-stress situation:

Portable containment: The SpotOn GPS Fence allows you to create instant boundaries anywhere. If you end up at a campground, a friend's property, or a temporary shelter without a fence, SpotOn gives you a secure, reliable way to contain your dog. No hammering in stakes or setting up bulky pens.
Backup chargers: Power outages or long trips can leave you without a way to recharge critical gear. We offer discounted extra chargers for the SpotOn GPS Fence—because when it comes to safety, running out of power isn't an option.
Copies of your emergency plan: Include your evacuation route, contact info for vets and emergency caregivers, and the address of the nearest 24-hour animal hospital.

Building a go bag for your dog and family.

Don’t Forget Mental Preparation

Practice makes perfect. Before an emergency, walk through your go-bag and evacuation plan with your dog. Introduce them to the crate, the harness, and new locations. If you're using the SpotOn Fence, set up temporary boundaries in a safe space so your dog understands the cues before it matters most.

Keep It Ready to Go

Store your go-bag near your own emergency supplies in a waterproof container or backpack. Check contents every 3-6 months and rotate food, water, and medications to keep them fresh. Add seasonal items (like cooling towels in summer or paw balm in winter) based on your climate and geography.

Download Your Free Checklist

We've taken the guesswork out of pet preparedness with a ready-to-use Pet Preparedness Checklist. It's perfect for packing a go-bag, prepping for a trip, or just making sure you're ready for the unexpected.

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If you have a SpotOn Fence, you already have one important item checked off your list! Looking for extra chargers or accessories for your SpotOn GPS Fence? Visit our shop to stock up on essentials and take advantage of exclusive discounts for current customers.