Thanks everyone, I understand I'm getting a mixed bag of responses here.

If they perish inside the smell is Horrific, plus it's just the right thing to do.If the pets will be there for more than a few hours, make sure they have enough food and water to wait it out.A box of Purina at the 7-11 is a couple of bucks, and a big bowl of water.Call the emergency contact number on the rental agreement and let them know what's going on.Put the food in the fridge and freezer in a garbage bag (if power goes off--it rots).Vehicles, ask the Sheriff, and try to get the keys (unless they "Custody" them).Will the relatives pay the rent--I doubt it.Say a prayer for the deceased.Good Luck!

@Pete HarperCash and a grocery bag?

See’s shops now put an individually wrapped candy or lollipop in each customer’s bag on the way out.

Question #2 - can I use a plastic bag for my moisture barrier when I replace the plywood or is there something more appropriate?  

I put the green plastic bag in the drain. 

The reason that isn't quite as easily done in my area is that the number of cleaning companies is far fewer than you'd hope (less than 10 who can handle my houses) - and after a few days of 20 people staying in a place, the garbage is 20-30 bags.

I know this happens pretty frequently and it's unfortunate how often the buyer, or the buyer's escrow account, is left holding the bag for the information gap between the government, other parts of the government, and title companies. 

I've lived in Vermont my whole life, but after the summer of my high school graduation, I decided to pack my bags and move to Texas to pursue real estate.

One thing I do for my tenants is every winter I buy everybody a bag of salt.