Disasters force families into difficult situations, filled with overwhelming stress and grief. Their pets feel it, too—facing hunger, displacement, and fear. 

That's why Colorado Pet Pantry and American Red Cross step in with Pet Comfort Kits. In April, KONG donated hundreds of bags, toys, treats, and enrichment items for these kits, aiming to provide comfort and stability to pets during times of crisis. 

In Colorado, where natural disasters such as wildfires and floods are common, these organizations hope that these kits provide some semblance of normalcy for families who face displacement and loss. 

HOW PET COMFORT KITS HELP 

During times of crisis, families often must evacuate quickly, taking only their pets and the clothes on their backs. There's no time to plan, gather supplies, or secure their belongings.  

These situations can be incredibly stressful for everyone involved, pets included. Animals may be left feeling hungry, scared, and confused. Not to mention, they're without their favorite toys, food, and comfort items. 

By providing pet parents with essential supplies, we can help ensure the health and safety of their pets. For those who have dogs or cats with them but lack food, water, or bedding, these kits can satisfy their hunger and thirst while also offering some familiar comforts.  

KONG toys are included to help relieve pets' stress through chewing, licking, and other forms of enrichment.   

Over 65% of Colorado households have pets, making it essential to consider the needs of entire families, not just people. Pets are part of the family, and keeping families together during disasters is crucial. 

WHAT’S IN A PET COMFORT KIT 

Pet comfort kits contain various supplies necessary when families are forced to evacuate quickly.  

These kits contain essentials like food, collapsible bowls, leashes, grooming tools, and waste bags. They also provide important items such as toys, treats, enrichment puzzles, and a bag to carry all the pet supplies.  

Dog comfort kits contain: 

• 1 Goodie Bone® 
• 1 KONG user guide 
• 1 KONG® dog bowl 
• 1 Marathon® treat 
• Other assorted treats 

Cat comfort kits contain: 

• 1 Kitty KONG® 
• 1 KONG user guide 
• 1 KONG® Mousse Salmon 

Cat and dog kits come in various sizes to meet the specific needs of pets. Each item is chosen to help ease stress, promote health, and restore some sense of routine. 

HOW PET COMFORT KITS WERE MADE 

In April 2025, Colorado Pet Pantry and American Red Cross volunteers gathered for a tour of the warehouse, gaining a first-hand understanding of how pet food and supplies are collected, sorted, and redistributed throughout the state. After the tour, they got to work assembling these kits with pet necessities and KONG toys to help pets manage stress during times of uncertainty.   

When disasters strike, American Red Cross first responders distribute Pet Comfort Kits directly to those who need them most.  

We're so grateful for the opportunity to help bring a sense of safety and normalcy to families and their beloved pets during life's toughest moments.  

HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT 

If you want to help Colorado Pet Pantry ensure all members of the family—human and animal—receive the support they need to survive and thrive, you can:  

1. Donate directly on the Colorado Pet Pantry website.  
2. Give food and supplies to animals in need 
3. Volunteer your time for animals across the state.