10 Essentials You Will Need When Packing Your Dog’s Bugging Out Bag

Bugging out can be a stressful event. As you prepare to flee in an emergency, will you leave your dog behind? Dogs, if trained and equipped well, can hold out on their own without too much help from humans. They are an asset to you rather than a burden, as long as you take the time and care to pack a smart bug out bag for them. Your pooch can provide you with priceless company, warmth, love, and protection, as you traverse unknown terrain.

1. Doggie Saddle Bag

Pick out a practical saddle bag that you can strap on to your dog, so you don’t have to carry the weight of its essential items in your backpack. Make sure the saddle has heavy-duty straps and fasteners, so it doesn’t come off midway. It should be durable, waterproof, and should have ample space to hold all your dog’s stuff.

2. Doggie Food

Your dog’s bugging out bag needs to be packed with sufficient food to keep your dog’s stomach full. If your pup is a fussy eater, it is best to stock up on a familiar brand of dog food that he’s used to eating. Moving to an unfamiliar setting is stressful as it is; an upset stomach from a change in diet can add to the misery. Cans and tins, however, can take up a lot of space and are heavier, so freeze-dry foods and pack them in Ziploc bags to save on space.

3. Collar and Leash with Identification

Mention your dog’s name, your own name, and your contact information on your dog’s collar. In case your dog wanders off in the inevitable confusion that’s part and parcel of an emergency, you will have equipped the dog with valuable information that could help someone bring him back to you.

4. Extra Leash

For long, rough journeys, it is advisable to pack an extra pair of leashes in case the first one breaks or gets lost. Get a good quality standard leash and not the retractable ones that do more harm than good.

5. Backpacker’s Food and Water Bowls

Backpacker’s bowls are lightweight, collapsible, and convenient. They can be stuffed into small spaces and backpacks and can be used whenever needed. Bring at least two of them. Also, pack a small bar of soap that you can clean the bowls with.

6. Water Purification Tablets

There is no guarantee that you will find clean drinking water along the way, and you can’t risk your dog’s health by letting him drink from dirty ponds or puddles. Keep water purification tablets handy that you can put in his water bowl to make sure the water is safe for drinking.

7. Treats

Pack a bag of treats, too, to cheer your dog up when he feels low and homesick. You can also use them to cheer him further when he is tired and does not want to go on.

8. Blanket

If you have to remain outdoors, know that it can get freezing at night. For this reason, be sure to pack a warm blanket that your fur baby can cuddle in when it gets chilly. Pick a blanket that is lightweight, not bulky, and can fit into your dog’s bugging out bag.

9. Medicines

Don’t forget medicine, which is very important. Pack essential first aid tools for your dog, such as gauze, scissors, band-aids, ointments, etc. and any specific medicines that your dog is prescribed. Also, include prescriptions and necessary notes about the drug administration so that people can help you during an emergency

10. Toys

Throw in a toy or a piece of clothing with your scent in your dog’s bag. Having its favorite toy or your scent near may also help with separation anxiety and cheer your dog up a bit in unknown territory. If you pack his bugging out bag carefully, you and your dog will have no trouble facing whatever comes your way.

Final Note

Your dog can be a significant asset during a survival situation, especially if you are prepared. A well-stocked doggy bug out bag can keep your dog safe in an emergency.