Americans Lack Pet Disaster Plans Despite Concerns, Survey Shows‌ ‌

The survey asked respondents about creating a pet emergency kit, including what necessities and comfort items they’d pack for their pets to ensure they are prepared. IVAN BABYDOV VIA PEXELS.

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According to new research, just one-third of Americans have a disaster preparedness plan that includes their pet.

The survey of 2,000 dog or cat owners revealed that half of Americans (52%) believe natural disasters are unavoidable, and 29% find themselves losing sleep worrying about natural disasters and their homes.

Despite this fear about natural disasters, less than half (45%) of respondents have a natural disaster plan in place, and even then, their plan might not cover everything important—including resources for their pet.

Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Hill’s Pet Nutrition, the survey results highlight the importance of preparing for natural disasters during September’s National Preparedness Month.

Eight in 10 Americans feel having a disaster preparedness plan for their pet is important. For respondents with a plan in place, their top concern is having enough food and water for their pets (73%).

This was followed by being physically able to transport their pet and their belongings (60%) and ensuring that they have an up-to-date disaster preparedness pet kit (48%).

The survey asked respondents about creating a pet emergency kit, including what necessities and comfort items they’d pack for their pets to ensure they are prepared.

Forty percent of respondents have kits prepared for their pets. The top items they have included are food (85%), water (80%), and both water and food bowls (77% and 73%, respectively).