Preparing your Pets for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season officially started on June 1^st and doesn’t end until October 31^st. While you might have your family and home prepared for hurricane season, have you prepared your pet? Many people with pets don’t take into account their pets’ needs during a hurricane. Below are some steps you can take to better prepare yourself and your pet for a hurricane.

Prepare a pet disaster kit – Make sure this kit contains medical records, medication, food for two weeks, fresh water, bowls, extra leash and collar and a picture of your pet. Set this kit aside and only use the items during a hurricane. Consider having your pet microchipped by your veterinarian in the event that your pet does get separated from you. Shelters and veterinary hospitals have readers for microchips and will be able to reunite you.

Have a crate available – Pets will be more welcome in shelters if they can be contained. Please note that Red Cross shelters do not accept pets even with a crate. If you plan to use a Red Cross shelter, you will have to board your pet or leave it with friends or family.

Make Prior Arrangements – Research hotels and motels outside your immediate area to review their pet policies. Some won’t allow pets, but may waive this rule in the event of an emergency. Save this information and contact numbers somewhere safe so you can make quick reservations if you have to evacuate. It is also a good idea to make reservations at a kennel outside the evacuation zone or arrange for family or friends to take your pet if you cannot take him/her with you.

Miscellaneous Tips - Make sure your pets are wearing secure collars with up to date information. This will help them to be returned to you. Bring pets inside well before a storm is approaching so you don’t have to search for them when it is time to go. Last but not least, stay calm. If you can be calm, it will help your pet to be calm and will ultimately make the entire situation much easier.