Finding Pet-Friendly Evacuation Shelters When Disaster Strikes
Where to find shelters that take pets before you need one
Most general emergency shelters do not allow pets, which means you need to know your options before a hurricane, wildfire, or flood forces you to leave. The fastest way to find pet-friendly shelters in your area is to call your local animal control office or humane society right now and ask them directly what shelters accept animals during evacuations. Many areas also list pet-friendly shelters on their county emergency management website, though the list may not be complete or current.
Your veterinarian's office may also keep a list of shelters that take pets during disasters. If you have a large animal like a horse or livestock, contact your county extension office or agricultural department — they often coordinate evacuation sites specifically for farm animals that general shelters cannot handle.
The Red Cross runs many emergency shelters but does not house pets in the main shelter buildings. However, some Red Cross chapters partner with local animal rescue groups to set up separate pet shelters nearby, or they can direct you to facilities that do. When you call ahead, ask whether the Red Cross chapter in your area has a pet shelter partnership.
Key Takeaways
- Call your local animal control, humane society, or county emergency management office now to learn which shelters in your area accept pets during evacuations.
- Most general Red Cross shelters do not allow pets inside, but some chapters have separate pet shelter partnerships you should ask about.
- Large animals like horses and livestock need different shelters — contact your county extension office or agricultural department for those options.
- Shelters often fill quickly during actual disasters, so registering your pet in advance or having a backup plan with a friend outside your evacuation zone is safer than waiting.
- Some shelters require proof of vaccinations, especially rabies, so bring vaccination records with your evacuation documents.
What information shelters will ask for when you arrive
When you show up at a pet-friendly shelter during an evacuation, staff will need your pet's name, species, age, and any medical conditions or medications your pet takes. Bring vaccination records if you have them — many shelters require proof of rabies vaccination before they will accept your pet, and some ask for records of other vaccines too. If your pet takes medication, bring the bottle with the label so staff can give the correct dose.
Have a recent photo of your pet on your phone or printed out. If your pet gets lost during the evacuation or while at the shelter, you will need that photo to post on lost-pet websites and social media. Write down any behavioral notes — whether your pet is aggressive, anxious, or has other traits staff should know about.
Bring your pet's microchip number if you have one, or the paperwork showing the number and the registry it is registered with. If your pet is microchipped but you have never registered it, do that now — a microchip only works if the registry has your current contact information.
Preparing your pet's evacuation kit before disaster hits
Pack a bag now with items your pet will need if you have to leave quickly. Include at least two weeks of food and water in containers that seal, a collapsible water bowl, any medications your pet takes, a leash or carrier, and a litter box if you have a cat. Include comfort items like a blanket or toy that smells like home — stressed pets settle faster with familiar objects.
Keep vaccination records and microchip paperwork in a waterproof folder in that bag. Add a recent photo of your pet and a written description of what your pet looks like, including any distinctive markings or scars. If your pet wears a collar with tags, make sure the phone number on the tag is current.
Store the evacuation kit somewhere you can grab it in under five minutes — near your main exit, in a closet by the door, or in your car. If you have multiple pets, use a checklist so you do not forget anyone in the rush to leave.
Registering your pet with shelters or rescue groups in advance
Some animal rescue organizations and shelters let you register your pet before a disaster happens. This means staff already have your contact information, your pet's medical history, and your preferences on file, which speeds up the check-in process when you actually need shelter. Call your local humane society or animal rescue group and ask whether they have a pre-registration program for evacuations.
If pre-registration is available, you will typically provide your name, phone number, address, your pet's name and species, any medical conditions, and emergency contact information for someone outside your evacuation zone. Some organizations ask for a photo and vaccination records at registration time. Keep a copy of your registration confirmation in your evacuation kit.
Pre-registration does not may provide a spot during a major disaster when shelters are overwhelmed, but it does put your pet on the priority list and means you will not have to fill out paperwork while you are stressed and evacuating.
What to do if pet-friendly shelters are full
During a large-scale disaster, pet-friendly shelters fill up quickly. Before that happens, identify a backup plan: a friend or family member outside your evacuation zone who has agreed to take your pet, a pet-friendly hotel that allows animals during emergencies, or a boarding facility that stays open during disasters. Call these places now and ask what their evacuation policy is.
Some areas have foster networks where volunteers open their homes to evacuated pets temporarily. Ask your humane society or animal rescue group whether your area has a foster program and how to get on the list. Having multiple backup options means you are not stuck choosing between leaving your pet behind or not evacuating.
If you cannot find a shelter or backup plan, some areas allow you to keep your pet with you in your car in a parking lot designated for that purpose, though this is not ideal for long evacuations. Ask your county emergency management office whether your area has a pet parking area or vehicle shelter option.
Keeping your pet safe during the shelter stay
Shelters do their best, but the environment is stressful for animals. Keep your pet in a carrier or crate when you are not directly supervising — this prevents fights with other animals and keeps your pet from running away if a door opens. Ask shelter staff how often you can visit your pet and whether you can bring additional food or comfort items from home.
Check on your pet at least once a day if the shelter allows it. Watch for signs of stress like not eating, excessive panting, or aggression. If your pet seems ill or injured, tell shelter staff immediately. Some shelters have veterinarians on site or can refer you to an emergency vet nearby.
Keep your phone charged and your contact information current with shelter staff. If you have to move to a different location, update the shelter immediately so they can reach you when it is safe for you to pick up your pet.
Finding your pet after evacuation if you get separated
If your pet gets lost during evacuation or while at a shelter, post on local lost-pet websites like Petco Love Lost and Finding Rover immediately. Call local animal shelters and animal control to report your pet missing and ask them to check their intake records. Post on neighborhood social media groups and Nextdoor — many lost pets are found by neighbors.
If your pet is microchipped, contact the microchip registry and report your pet lost. The registry will contact you if someone scans the chip. Make sure your microchip registration has your current phone number and email.
Put up flyers in your neighborhood and at local veterinary offices, pet stores, and shelters. Include a clear photo, your pet's name, a description, and your phone number. Many lost pets are found within a few blocks of where they went missing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay at a pet-friendly shelter with my pet, or do I have to leave my pet in a separate area?
Most pet-friendly shelters keep pets in a separate area from people for health and safety reasons. You can usually visit your pet during designated hours, but you will not sleep in the same room. Ask the specific shelter about their visitation policy when you call ahead.
What if my pet has behavioral problems or is aggressive toward other animals?
Tell shelter staff about behavioral issues when you arrive. Some shelters can house aggressive pets separately or in individual kennels. Others may not be able to accommodate them. Call ahead and describe your pet's behavior so staff can tell you whether they can help before you show up during an evacuation.
Do I need to pay to use a pet-friendly evacuation shelter?
Most public pet-friendly shelters run by animal control or humane societies do not charge during evacuations. Some private boarding facilities or rescue organizations may charge a fee, though many waive fees during declared disasters. Ask about costs when you call to register or inquire about space.
What happens to my pet if I cannot pick them up right away after the evacuation ends?
Shelters will care for your pet as long as needed, but you should pick up your pet as soon as it is safe to do so. If you will be delayed, call the shelter and let them know. Provide emergency contact information for someone who can pick up your pet if you cannot.
Are exotic pets like birds, reptiles, or rabbits accepted at pet-friendly shelters?
Many general pet-friendly shelters only take dogs and cats. Call ahead to ask whether the shelter accepts your type of pet. If they do not, ask for a referral to a shelter or rescue group that specializes in exotic animals.