Hurricane Preparation and Pet Safety

The best way to protect your household from the effects of a disaster is to have a disaster plan. If you are a pet owner, that plan must include your pets. Being prepared can save their lives.

Top Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe During a Disaster

1. If it’s not safe for you to stay in your home during an emergency, it’s not safe for them either!

2. Include supplies for your pet in your emergency kit, or assemble an emergency kit for your pet.

3. Make an evacuation plan for you and your pets. Many hotels and shelters do not accept animal guests, other than service animals.

Assemble an Emergency Kit for Your Pet

1. Food. At least a three-day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.

2. Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets.

3. Medicines and medical records. Most boarding kennels, veterinarians and animal shelters will need your pet's medical records to make sure all vaccinations are current.

4. Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

5. First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea too.

6. Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash.

7. Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

8. Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach.

9. A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

10. Familiar items. Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.

Keep Pets Calm During Storm

Storms are typically upsetting to pets. If you usually give your animals anti-anxiety medications during a routine storm, they will likely need them during a hurricane. Be sure to stock up on those in advance. Remember that our pets often look to us for comfort and security. While hurricanes are stressful and chaotic, do your best to remain calm so your pet feels safe too. You can find anti-anxiety medication here.

No one ever thinks they will be caught up in a natural disaster such as a hurricane. However, planning and preparation before the storm will make things easier for you and your pet during and after the storm!