As a resident of Florida, you understand the massive impact a hurricane can have on your home and your family if you are not adequately prepared. When a tropical storm or hurricane hits, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of every family member, including your pets. This article will provide you with tips on how you can keep your pets safe during a tropical storm or hurricane.
8 Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe During A Hurricane
1. Be Prepared
The best way to keep your pets safe when a hurricane strikes is to have a disaster plan in place. When you create your hurricane disaster plan, it should include your household pets and service animals. For instance, you should identify pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route to ensure that you and your pets have a safe place to stay as you make your way towards safety. If you wait until the storm hits to make pet-friendly lodging arrangements, you could be putting yourself and your family members in extreme danger.
2. Pack A Pet Disaster Kit
Part of your disaster planning should include preparing a pet disaster kit. Your pet disaster kit should consist of a one to two-week supply of food and water, a can opener, puppy pads, plastic bags, and a sturdy leash. Also, don’t forget to stock up on necessary medications in advance of the storm and pack a familiar towel or blanket for comfort. If you have cats, do not forget to pack kitty litter and a litter box.
3. Pet Identification
If your pet does not have up-to-date identification tags, take the time now to get them made. Identification tags will help you reunite with your pet after a storm should you become separated.
4. Vaccination Records
It’s also important to travel with your pet’s vaccination records just in case you need to check them into a nearby vet clinic or boarding facility. If you do not have a copy of your pet’s vaccination records, contact your vet now to get them faxed or emailed to you. You do not want to wait until disaster strikes to locate your pet’s records.
5. Invest in a Carrier
If your disaster plan includes traveling, make sure to invest in a portable pet carrier. During a hurricane stress levels are high, and loud wind and excessive thunder can cause anxiety in pets. A carrier will help keep you and your pet safe and secure while traveling during a high-stress time.
6. Be Mindful of Shelters
It’s critical to locate pet-friendly shelters before evacuation. Most pet-friendly shelters will require you to register in advance. If a shelter is your family’s only option, make arrangements with a reputable vet or boarding facility to ensure your pet stays safe during the storm.
7. Try to keep Calm
Hurricanes are a cause for anxiety, but you must remain calm for your pet’s sake. Pets can sense our emotions, so a calm demeanor could lead to a less-panicked pet.
8. Home Alone is the Last Resort
Leaving your pets at home should always be your very last resort. Pets who are left at home during a hurricane have a heightened chance of being seriously injured during a storm, or could escape and become lost if your home sustains significant damage. If you are forced to leave your pets home alone, place them in a room away from windows and be sure to leave toys and bedding for comfort. Also, ensure there is plenty of water and food in containers that are self-serving. If you have many large animals, consider filling the bathtub up with water. Never, under any circumstance leave your pets outdoors during a hurricane or tropical storm
Final Thoughts
Keeping your pet safe during a hurricane or tropical storm starts with preparation. Not having a hurricane plan in place could put your family members, your pets, and yourself in extreme danger. Above all, do not try to ride out a storm. If you are told to evacuate, you must do so at first warning. Procrastinating and ignoring evacuation mandates could put your family, your pets, and yourself at extreme risk. Remember, your possessions and home can be replaced, your family and your pets cannot.
