Identification, above all
Identification (microchip, registered in the I-CAD database in France) is mandatory for every dog and for every cat born after January 1, 2012, before any transfer of ownership. The Rural and Maritime Fishing Code (article R215-15) provides for a fine of up to 750 euros for non-compliance.
Beyond the legal obligation, it's the only reliable way to be reunited with your pet if separated during an evacuation or a disaster: check that your registered contact details are up to date (address, phone number changes), directly on i-cad.fr.
Your pet's 72h kit
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Water and food for 72h | Same principle as the household emergency kit, adapted to their usual ration. |
| Identification card and vaccination record | Often requested at emergency shelters or a vet's. |
| Ongoing medication | For a chronic treatment, plan a few days' reserve. |
| Solid leash or harness, carrier | A stressed animal can flee: containment equipment matters as much as food. |
| A blanket or familiar toy | Useful to reassure them in an unfamiliar environment. |
The "who picks them up" plan
If an emergency happens while you're away, someone needs to know where your pet, its food and its kit are. Arrange:
- A trusted neighbour or relative, who has a spare key.
- Their contact details noted in your family plan, in the same place as your other emergency contacts.
The case of a fire
As our guide on the fire evacuation plan reminds us: if your pet is near you when leaving, take them. If not, never go back into an evacuated home to look for them. Tell firefighters as soon as they arrive and point out where they tend to hide.
Mistakes to avoid
- Leaving outdated I-CAD contact details. An animal identified with an old phone number can't be returned to you.
- Going back into a dangerous building to retrieve a pet, whatever the situation.
- Forgetting medication for a pet on chronic treatment in the emergency kit.
- Not arranging anyone to care for the pet in your absence.
Your pets, in the household plan
LASTLINE can help you:
- add your pets to your household, with their specific needs;
- find vets near you on a map.
LASTLINE doesn't replace official registration with the I-CAD database: that's where your contact details must be up to date first and foremost.
Add my pet to my householdFrequently asked questions
Is identifying a dog or cat mandatory in France?
Yes. Under the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, every dog must be identified before 4 months and every cat born after January 1, 2012 before 7 months, before any transfer of ownership. Lack of identification carries a fine of up to 750 euros (article R215-15).
What should go in a pet's emergency kit?
Water and food for 72 hours, the identification card and vaccination record, ongoing medication, a solid leash or harness, and if possible a carrier.
What if I can't get home to my pet?
Arrange in advance a trusted contact who has keys and knows where the animal and its food are. In case of fire, never go back into an evacuated home: tell firefighters on arrival and point out where the animal tends to hide.
Sources
- I-CAD, National identification database for domestic carnivores.
- Rural and Maritime Fishing Code, article R215-15 (fine for lack of identification).