Hurricane season is here and most seasoned residents know what’s on their checklist: stock up on food, lay out the sandbags and map out evacuation routes. But for pet owners, preparation means twice as much work. Our pets rely on us for their safety and comfort, and a little planning now can make all the difference when a storm hits.
Pet Emergency Kit
We spoke to Dr. Alexandra MacLean of VEG (Veterinary Emergency Group) Vet and Summer Turner of Crescent Care Vet, both of whom said the No.1 priority is to build an emergency kit for your pets. This kit should include at least a week’s worth of essentials: plenty of food, bottled water and all necessary medications. A sturdy kennel or carrier is also critical, not only for transportation, but as a secure space if you need emergency housing.
Microchipping
Identification is another must, and every pet should have a collar with current contact information. “Animals can get their collars stuck on bushes and other debris that can make them come off, and with all of that goes any identifying tags. Microchipping is an identification device that pets cannot slip out of,” said Turner. If your pet is microchipped, confirm that your contact details are up to date by reaching out to your microchip company or your veterinarian.
Your Pet’s Mental Health
Storms are just as frightening for pets as they are for people. Creating a calm, safe environment is key. Dim lighting, a sound machine, their favorite treats and most importantly, your presence, can provide the comfort they need to stay calm during the stormy conditions.
When Medical Emergencies Happen
Unfortunately, hurricanes can sometimes lead to pet injuries. After storms, veterinarians often see cases of saltwater ingestion, wounds from debris and even drowning. If your pet needs urgent care and your regular vet is unavailable, many emergency clinics like VEG remain open 24/7, even during severe weather. VEG also offers free phone consultations to guide you if you can’t reach a clinic immediately.
What to Do if You Find a Lost or Injured Pet
Animals are found lost or injured after storms. If you encounter a stray, Dr. MacLean suggests approaching with caution, as frightened animals may react unpredictably. If the pet is safe to handle, bring them to a 24-hour clinic or a local animal shelter. Many pets found after storms are successfully reunited with their owners thanks to microchips and ID tags.
Plan Ahead
One of the most overlooked parts of hurricane prep is researching evacuation routes and pet-friendly accommodations ahead of time. Some shelters and hotels relax their pet policies during emergencies, but you don’t want to be scrambling for information at the last minute. Do your homework now to ensure you know where you can go and what each facility requires for pets.
No one wants to think about the bad things that can happen to our loved ones during an emergency, but when it comes to hurricane season, preparation is key for both people and pets. Our animals count on us, and with some planning you can weather any storm knowing your furry family members are safe by your side.
By Allyah Harrar
Leave a Reply