How to Protect Your Pets During Hurricane Season – Insider Tips from the Experts

Regardless of what’s in 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 up on necessary supplies, there are several considerations pet parents must take into account in the event of a tropical storm.

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

Microchips and vaccinations

You should always have your pets vaccinations updated and microchippedbut it’s even more important when a hurricane hits, Alleyne says. Why? It’s quite possible that your pet will have to cross flood waters that carry disease, so they’ll want to be vaccinated against diseases like parvovirus.

Additionally, you’ll definitely want your pets microchipped in case you get separated. That way, if they are found by an animal welfare organization or a kind stranger, the two of you can be reunited. Microchipping your a dog or cat it may cost a few dollars, but being reunited with your lost pet is priceless.

Essential Supplies

Whether you’re hitting the road or holed up at home, make sure you have all the essentials to keep you and your pets as comfortable as possible wherever you go.

Alleyne says these include:

• A pet first aid kit
• Food and bottled water for a week
• Anxiety medication for your pet
• A box or house to prevent your pet from escaping
• Lamps (and batteries)
• Bathroom supplies: litter boxes, pee pads, newspaper, poop bags, and wipes to clean up when your pet needs to go but obviously can’t go outside
• Toys
• Leashes, preferably with reflective material
• Treats
• Medicine for your pets
• Stickers or signs to place on doors or windows that notify rescuers 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 caretaker.

Evacuation with your pets

If you do take them with you, make sure they’re comfortable to transport, says Alleyne. Make sure you have the right kind bearers for cats and small puppies. Of course, you’ll also want to bring medicine for your pets, food, and a few toys or valuables to keep them comfortable when you arrive at your evacuation destination.

Evacuation without your pets

If you must leave your pets, make sure your pets are with a trusted caregiver who can look after them while you are away. Don’t leave them at home to fend for themselves.

“It’s not safe for your pets to stay in the storm,” says Alleyne.

Shelter in place

If you’re sheltering in place, Alleyne recommends spending as much time as possible with your pet during the storm, preferably indoors away from windows. While the storm rages, you’ll want to distract them with food, treats, and play.

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