How to Protect Your Pets During Hurricane Season: Expert Advice Inside

Whatever the forecast, it’s always a good time to remind ourselves how to best prepare our pets for a hurricane. From creating an evacuation plan to stocking necessary supplies, there are several considerations pet owners need to make in the event of a tropical storm.

We spoke with Dwight Alleyne, DVM and an expert in animal care for JustAnswer about what you should know if you and your pet find yourself in the path of a hurricane.

Microchips and vaccinations

You should always have your pets vaccinations updated and microchippedbut it’s even more vital when a hurricane hits, Alleyne says. Why? It is very likely that your pet will have to wade through flood waters that carry diseases, so they will want to be vaccinated against diseases such as parvovirus.

Additionally, you will definitely want your pets to be microchipped in case you get separated. That way, if an animal welfare organization or a kind stranger finds them, the two of you can reunite. By microchipping yours dog OR cat it may cost a few dollars, but reuniting with your lost pet is priceless.

Essential supplies

Whether you’re traveling or sheltering at home, make sure you have all the essentials to ensure you and your pets can be as comfortable as possible wherever you go.

Alleyne says these include:

• A first aid kit for pets
• Food and bottled water for a week
• Anxiety medications for your pet
• A cage or kennel to prevent your pet from escaping
• Flashlights (and batteries)
• Bathroom supplies: waste containers, pee pads, newspapers, poop bags, and cleaning wipes for when your pet needs to go outside but obviously can’t venture outside
• Toys
• Leashes, preferably with reflective material
• Deals with
• Your pets medicine
• Stickers or signs to place on your door or windows to let emergency responders know that you and your pets are inside

Evacuation planning

It is essential to include your pets in any evacuation plan, whether you plan to travel with them or leave them with a trusted caregiver.

Evacuate with your pets

If you bring them with you, make sure they are transported comfortably, Alleyne says. Make sure you have the right kind of carriers for cats and small puppies. Of course, you will also want to bring along your pets’ medications, food, and some toys or valuables so that they feel comfortable when you reach the evacuation destination.

Evacuate without your pets

If you must leave your pets at home, make sure they have a trusted caregiver who can take care of them while you are away. Don’t leave them at home to fend for themselves.

“It’s not safe for your pets to be left behind during a storm,” Alleyne says.

Shelter in place

If you’re sheltering in place, Alleyne recommends spending as much time as possible with your pet during the storm, preferably in an inside room, away from windows. While the storm rages, you’ll want to keep them distracted with food, treats, and free time.

You can’t prepare for everything, but it’s always good to plan and have enough essentials to keep everyone comfortable for at least several days until the storm passes.