No one ever expects to have to deal with an emergency like hurricanes with pets. Having a pet to care for makes it essential to be prepared for disasters before they happen. We are currently evacuated from our home due to a wild fire nearby and though I thought I was prepared, I could have been much more so. Luckily, we had time to pack before evacuating, but many did not have that luxury. With fires and hurricanes tearing through the U.S. right now, being prepared for disaster with pets is so important! Petplan kindly shared some tips with us on preparing pets for hurricanes.
Too many times we see pets abandoned during weather-related disasters and with yet another Hurricane possibly headed our way (Irma), Petplan pet insurance wants to remind responsible pet parents to be aware of these simple tips in preparing pets for hurricanes to keep their pets safe and sound.
Click here for the full list of tips from Petplan staff veterinarians Dr. Kim Smyth and Dr. Ernie Ward.
Preparing Pets for Hurricanes
- Before the Storm: Keep calm and prepare. Pets can sense barometric pressure changes, so ease worry by speaking in a reassuring voice and distracting pets with games, toys and natural calming remedies.
- In the Thick of It: Take shelter and keep pets inside—do not let them out in your yard off-leash! Stock up on puppy pads for an indoor bathroom solution. If you evacuate, make sure your dogs have ID tags and cats are in crates.
- Aftermath: Proceed with caution. Pets can become injured or ill from breathing toxic generator fumes, drinking dirty water or eating spoiled food.
Hurricane Evacuation Kit Checklist for Pets
(click here for info on each item)
- Pet carrier
- Medication for two weeks
- Food and water for one week
- Two slip leashes
- Printed and electronic copies of medical history
- Identification and contact information
- Take a photo of your pet before you leave your home
- Litter, piddle pads and trash bags
- Shampoo, brush, towels
- Plenty of patience
We have an Pet Emergency Go Kit available all year long – we replace the food in it every few months if we don’t use it. It’s so important to be prepared Before an emergency strikes, otherwise you’re running around trying to get ready in the midst of the stress of needing to evacuate. I’m so sorry you’ve had to evacuate due to the tragic wildfires! My thoughts & prayers go out to you and your family. I hope you can get back home soon.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them