Preparing Your Pets for a Hurricane
Hurricane season is in full swing, which may or may not affect your family where you live. Just in case, the following is a quick guide on what to do to prepare your pets for a hurricane whether you decide to evacuate or not.
Before the Storm Arrives
Everyone knows that your local weather forecasters are not always able to predict the path of a storm perfectly, at least until it has almost arrived. Because of this, even if you aren’t sure it is going to hit your town, it is a good idea to be ready just in case it does. Here are some important things to take care of just in case.
- Microchipping your pets is the best way to ensure that if they get lost, they will make it back to you. Making sure they have an updated ID tag with your correct name, phone number and address is also essential.
- Look around the outside of your home for any objects that might fly around and injure people or pets. Tie down any that may become potential problems.
- All pets should be brought indoors and make sure that you have emergency supplies at hand. This includes extra pet food, clean water, and a comfortable crate for each animal to lay down in.
- Have the following supplies ready should you need to evacuate: a first aid kit, food, medicine, water, leashes, bowls, chew toys, carriers, and a litter box if you have a cat.
- If there is an evacuation mandate in order, bring your pets with you wherever you are headed and don’t wait until too late to leave. Be sure to bring your evacuation kit along with you.
During the Storm
If you have decided to stay home and ride out the storm, be sure to go to a safe room within your home, such as a room that doesn’t have windows. Your entire family, including your pets, should stay in this interior room. Avoid separating your pets from you at any time during the hurricane.
- Your pet emergency kit should be kept with you at all times.
- When your pet is out of its crate, it may decide to run and hide in its favorite spot. Know where its favorite locations to hide are located to avoid frantic searching during the storm.
- All possible exits such as dog doors should be secured so that no pets can frantically run outside.
- According to the American Humane Society, you should avoid the temptation to tranquilize your pets. This is because they might need to use their survival instincts in a lifesaving situation.
After the Storm Has Passed
Before letting your pets venture outdoors, you go outside and access the damages first. When you feel comfortable letting your dog outdoors again, keep him or her on a leash in case you need to keep them away from sharp debris or displaced objects.
- Allow your pets some time to get their bearings again. Their familiar scents and landmarks may be altered now and as a result, they may feel a bit disoriented about things.
- Keep your pets away from harm by looking out for downed power lines and contaminated water.
Your pets may feel a bit stressed out after the storm is over. As a result, their behavior may change a bit, if only temporarily. Be aware and sensitive to these possible changes and give them some space if it seems that they need it. Others may do well with a bit of extra comfort from you. Some extra TLC may be all that is in order for your pets to feel all is well again.