Shelter and Pet Safety

In many disaster scenarios, evacuation is necessary. However, there are also situations where local authorities or conditions require people to take shelter—either at home, in a public emergency shelter, or in a temporary refuge facility. Understanding what to expect can make a high-stress situation more manageable.

Types of Shelters

  1. Shelter-in-Place: Staying in your current location—usually your home—while sealing off air and staying protected from external hazards (radiation, chemicals, etc.).
  2. Public Emergency Shelter: Operated by government or nonprofit agencies; provides basic needs to those displaced. Check American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or find local shelters. 
  3. Medical Needs Shelters: Facilities equipped to support people with power-dependent medical equipment or specific care needs.
  4. Pet Co-Located Shelters: Some shelters accept pets in a separate but adjacent facility. Check Animal Human Society, Red Rover, or find local pet shelters.

What to Expect in a Public Shelter

  • Check-In Process:
    • Identification may be requested, but lack of ID will not deny entry.
    • Registration helps with reunification and service delivery.
  • What’s Provided:
    • Basic meals, bottled water, limited bedding (cots, mats, blankets)
    • Charging stations, security presence, basic first aid
    • Social workers or mental health support in some shelters
  • What to Bring:
    • Medications and prescriptions
    • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, sanitary products)
    • Important documents
    • Comfort items (blanket, books, stuffed animal for children)
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • Headphones for personal noise control

Sheltering with Pets

  • Many public shelters now accommodate pets, but check in advance.
  • Animals must typically be leashed, crated, or contained.
  • Bring:
    • Food and water bowls
    • Veterinary records and vaccines
    • Waste bags or litter box
    • Medications
    • Familiar toy or blanket

Note: Service animals are always allowed by law in all public shelters.

Sheltering at Home

If staying at home during an emergency:

  • Choose an interior room with few windows.
  • Stockpile essentials and have plastic sheeting and duct tape for sealing if needed.
  • Prepare to lose power or water services—have flashlights, bottled water, and waste disposal plans ready.

Medical and Special Needs

If you rely on:

  • Oxygen machines
  • Refrigerated medications
  • Mobility devices

Then pre-register with your local emergency management agency for medical needs sheltering. These shelters may be limited in capacity and should be arranged before disaster strikes.

Quick Tip:
 Download your local county or state emergency services app to locate nearby shelters before you need them.