Surviving a hurricane or other severe flooding often requires caring for family members as well as yourself, including those of the four-legged variety. Your disaster plan must include your pets, so check out a few tips for ensuring Fluffy and Fido remain safe during extreme weather:
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
Such kits aren’t that different from standard emergency kits! Include at least three days’ worth of water and non-perishable food, as well as a can opener if necessary. Other necessities include cat litter, puppy pads, plastic bags, medicine and medical records, leash, picture of your pet, contact information, carrier and favorite toys. Keep medical information/medicine in waterproof containers.
Use a Collar
If your pet is micro-chipped, you’re off to a good start should the animal become lost. Place a collar around kitty or doggy’s neck if it doesn’t already have one, and include tags that feature the pet’s name, your name, phone number and address. Have your pet wear the collar even if it’s micro-chipped.
Contact Local Pet Boarding Facilities
You might have to board your pet in the event of a hurricane or severe flood, so find out where nearby facilities are located. It’s also recommended you learn the location of facilities farther away from your home in case nearby options close.
Carry a Photo
In addition to keeping a photo of your pet in your emergency kit, have one in your bag or wallet for identification if the animal gets lost.
Stay Aware
Listen to advisory warnings and have a plan that includes your pet should you need to evacuate. If you must evacuate, do so sooner rather than later to protect yourself and your family!
Remain Calm
Always speak to your pet using soothing tones to prevent it from, well, freaking out. If you are calm, your pet is calm.
Create a Safe Area
Should you have no other alternative and must leave your pet at home, confine it to a safe area inside the house. Never leave your pet chained outdoors, and remember even if it’s inside, it’s still in danger from a hurricane or flood. Leave plenty of food and water as well as soft bedding, and any toys and treats that help kitty or doggy relax.
Use these tips to keep your favorite animals safe during natural disasters!
Have you survived a hurricane with your pet? Share your tips in the comments section!