As pet owners, we know how important it is to keep our furry friends safe during a natural disaster. Hurricanes can be particularly dangerous for pets, so it's crucial to have a plan in place before a storm hits. In this blog, we'll provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to prepare your pets for a hurricane, from creating a disaster kit to evacuating safely. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your pets are protected and comfortable during a hurricane, and have peace of mind knowing that you've done everything you can to keep them safe.

Preparing in advance gives you time to get organized. You being less stressed and anxious means your pet will be less stressed and anxious!

Here are some tips we’ve compiled for you and your furry family members.

 

 

Before the storm:

Get a rescue alert sticker. (Make sure that it is easily visible! Place it on or near your front door window.)

  • If you evacuate with pets and time allows, write “evacuated” across stickers
  • Get a free sticker here!

 

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Arrange a safe haven.

DON’T LEAVE THEM BEHIND! If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for them.

  • Contact your vet for boarding options. If their area will be affected by the hurricane, make sure they have a generator if possible.
  • Find hotels or motels that are pet friendly. Have a list.
  • Ask friends or family if they are willing to take your pet. Make sure they know ahead of time special needs your pet may have.
  • Bring pets indoors at the first sign of storm or disaster - they can get lost or disoriented.

 

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Prepare emergency supplies.

    Get these ahead of time and account for any other special needs your pet may have.
    • Prepare to be gone for several weeks.
      • For nervous pets, a storm blanket/ThunderShirt may be helpful - have backups in case these are soiled
      • Up to date identification, collar, tags, microchip, ID tag with contact information and medical alerts
      • Write your pet’s name and contact info on your pet’s carrier

 

Pack an emergency kit that you keep close to the door.

  • Toys and scratch pad
  • Pillowcases (a great makeshift hideaway for cats!)
  • Recent photo of pets
  • Feliway (spray and wipes)
  • Blankets (fluffy/fleece) to allow cats to hide
  • Flashlight
  • Carriers – one for each pet (if cats are housed together and get anxiety, they may lash out at each other!)
  • Bottled water
  • Two weeks supply of medications in a waterproof container
  • Photocopied proof of vaccinations, medical records, back up prescriptions
  • Extra collars/leashes
  • Feeding dishes/water bowls
  • Garbage bags
  • Liquid soap/disinfectant
  • Paper towels
  • Disposable litter tray + their regular litter
  • A weeks worth of canned and dry food
  • First aid kit - ask your vet for supplies

 

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For less severe circumstances

  • Determine which room will be the safest. It should be clear of hazards such as windows or toxic chemicals that may be in reach of your pet. This could be a bathroom, basement, utility room, etc.
  • Access to fresh water is important. Fill tubs and sinks with water in case of damage to water and power systems.

 

Common medications and supplies you may need

  • Antidiarrheal
  • Antinausea
  • Antibiotic ointment/bandage/tape/scissors
  • Flea/tick/heartworm prevention
  • Alcohol prep pads
  • Gloves
  • Saline solution
  • Tweezers
  • Anxiety medication prescribed from your veterinarian

 

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Websites

 Additional information for evacuating horses, reptiles, birds, and other small mammals.

Pet evacuation kit