We strongly recommend that as you prepare for your family's well-being during a hurricane that you extend that care to your furry family too. Planning ahead is the best way to ensure the safety of your entire family. In the hope that all our clients and patients weather the storm safely, we have created a list of simple steps you can take to help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy during a disaster. We've also included links below that will provide additional information and tips.
If it is not safe for you to stay in your home, then it is not safe for your pets either! Never leave them behind! Without adequate preparation, you may not know where your pets will be welcomed. Please remember that rescuing an animal should never compromise human safety!
- Make sure that your pet has identification. Microchips work very well for Animal Services and nearly all veterinary clinics can read them, but during a disaster those services may not be available. A basic tag with your name and cell phone number (not your landline!) will help concerned citizens identify your pet. Additionally, make sure that you update your information with the microchip company. Update any phone numbers and addresses to ensure that your pet makes it home safely - especially if you have to evacuate!
- Stock up on pet food and medicine. You should keep 2-3 weeks of food and 3-4 weeks of medicine on hand. This is especially true if your pet is on a prescription food or has food allergies which might limit what diets are acceptable. Purchasing wet food will lengthen the shelf life of your supply and also help minimize your pet's water intake.
- Have a sturdy leash, harness, and a carrier. Even for pets that normally will stay right beside you, a storm situation will cause many animals to become overly excited or wander off. If you have to go out of your home shortly following a hurricane, keep your pet close. Don't forget the danger of fallen power lines, etc. Some pets may also benefit from a well-fitted muzzle. Even though your pet may never bite normally, an excited animal during a stressful situation may not act normally. You will also want to keep pets separate (especially cats and dogs) as the excitement may cause them to turn on each other. Carriers may be required at your shelter. Don't forget to label it with your and your pet's information!
- Create a hurricane kit. In addition to your human family's supplies:
- Pet food for 2-3 weeks (see #3). Don't forget a manual can opener!
- Medications for 3-4 weeks (see #3)
- Water for at least a week
- Medical records (clearly showing that all vaccines are up to date) stored in a waterproof container
- Written instructions about your pet's care including feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior issues, and medicine.
- The contact information for your veterinarian
- Current photos of your pet (printed - not on a phone)
- Doggie waste bags or cat litter (and box) and a bag to store collected waste in. Newspapers might make cleanup easier too. (see #5)
- A sturdy leash, harness, or carrier. Some dogs might benefit from a muzzle.
- A collar with identification (see #1)
- Food dishes
- Pet first aid kit
Links -
Hurricane Preparedness
"Hurricane Preparedness and Response" - AVMA
General Disaster Preparedness
"Pet Disaster Preparedness" - American Red Cross
"Disaster Preparedness" - CDC
"Make a Disaster Plan for your Pets" - The Humane Society
"Pet and Animal Emergency Planning" - Department of Homeland Security
"Disaster Preparedness" - ASPCA
Disaster Preparedness for Livestock (We don't serve livestock at Bellalago Veterinary, but many of our clients also have large animal members of their family. We strongly suggest working with your large animal veterinarian to get a plan in place.)
"Hurricane Preparation Tips" - University of Florida: Large Animal Hospital
"Disaster Preparedness for Farm Animals" - The Humane Society
"Hurricane Season Preparation for Florida Horse Farms" - University of Florida: IFAS Extension
"Hurricane News" - Florida Horse
"Hurricane Preparation" - Polk County Sheriff's Office