Story and Photo by Hannah Deadman-Arnst
In South Florida, it’s not a matter of *if* another hurricane makes landfall, but when. In addition to ensuring your gas tank is full and your windows are shuttered, it’s critical to make sure your pets also stay safe. Read on for several ways to keep your furry friends safe in the event of a storm.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
It’s important to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. To save time, build a “go bag” full of the essentials you and your pet need. Include items like food, fresh water, important medications, vet records, litter or poop bags, carriers, and first-aid items. Update or refresh the food, water, and medicine every so often so your bag is ready year-round. Don’t forget to add your pet’s favorite blanket or toy and, if needed, pet-friendly CBD, a Thundershirt, or other stress-reducing items to keep them calm.
Pro tip: Create a checklist on your phone or in a notepad to make sure you have everything you need. This American Kennel Club list is a good place to start!
Keep Records Current
Another key component to hurricane preparedness is keeping documentation updated. Vet records and contact information, proof of ownership, medical instructions, emergency contacts, and microchip numbers are all critical. Also, make sure your pet’s collar has current information on it (like the right phone number) and that the microchip is registered with your correct address. Recent photos are also helpful—in case you need to find your pet in the event you get separated.
Pro tip: Keep digital and hard copies (in a waterproof box or folder) of your pet’s records, photos, and other information.
Have an Evacuation Plan
It’s crucial to have a route planned if you need to leave the area quickly. Before embarking, create a list of potential stops like pet-friendly emergency shelters or hotels. Google Maps is an easy way to do this. Don’t forget to verify your list a couple of times a year to confirm the accommodations are still accurate. Finally, contact a trusted family member or friend who can pick up your pets, just in case you’re out of town or can’t get home in time before the evacuation needs to happen.
Pro tip: It’s a good idea to have a backup route in mind; potential road closures or traffic may stop you from being able to take your primary route.
Get Pets Used to Travel
Practice loading your animals into the car quickly, going on longer drives, and being in new environments outside of your home or neighborhood. It’s also important to have crates and go bags ready to load into your car. For smaller animals like birds, hamsters, or fish, there may be special considerations for safe travel. Also, make sure your pets can easily adjust to being in new spaces. This can make an already stressful experience go more smoothly for everyone.
Pro tip: You may not always have to evacuate. Be sure to bring pets inside at the first sign of a storm to keep them safe!
Hurricanes are never fun—but hurricane prep is essential to keeping your pets safe. For more emergency preparedness tips, visit www.ready.gov/pets or click here.