Pet Safety Tips For the Hurricane Season

Image Credit - 

Pixabay.com/

The hurricane season is about to start in just a couple of months. If you live on the Gulf or Atlantic coasts, you know this already, but are your prepared or are you waiting till the arrival of the first storm scare? Hurricanes, like brushfires, floods, and tornadoes, are difficult to get through without adequate preparation. However, if you arm yourself properly, you can make things safer and easier for yourself and your pet.

1. Plan it out – Set down a course of action and make sure that you can get going in a moment's notice. Have all the necessary supplies ready in a safe and easily accessible spot. It is like having a flashlight or a candle under your sink in case you have a black out. You might not need them, but you don't have to stumble in the dark in case there is a blackout.
2. Stick to your decision – Whatever course of action you decide on, stay with it. Otherwise, you risk putting your pet in danger. If your plan is to leave your town at the sign of the first warning, then do so. Changing your plan or your mind can lead to an unnecessary accident, as you will no longer be completely prepared.
3. Keep your kit ready – An emergency kit for your pet is not very different to yours. Make sure it contains non-perishable food items, water for at least three days, a solid carrier, plastic bags, puppy pads, both you and your pet's medical supplies and records in a waterproof container, an extra leash, litter and litter box, and your pet's picture in case you get separated. Microchipping or tagging your pet will also make it easier to find him if he gets lost.
4. Staying in – If you are going to stay at home till the storm passes, keep your pet on a leash or in his carrier. There is no telling when you will be forced to evacuate. Even if you don't have to clear out, you do not want to be in a position where you have to track down a petrified pet in the middle of chaos. Therefore, it is extremely important to secure your pup before the storm.
5. Going out – Keep track of the latest news. If you are asked to evacuate by the authorities, you must do it as soon as you the warning. It helps if you have all your supplies packed and are ready to go. We suggest carrying a knapsack or a backpack that holds all your essential supplies. Make a note of where all the shelters are located and how to get there.
6. Remain calm – Whether you choose to stay, leave early or asked to evacuate due to damage to the house of the severity of the storm, it is important to stay calm. Pets can read our emotions. So, if you stay calm, your pet will panic less. And make sure that you talk to your pet in a cam and soothing voice.

Here’s all you need to know about hurricane safety for pets

The hurricane season is nearing and it is a cause for concern in many states. Hurricanes can cause a lot of damage, physically, emotionally, and in every other way.Hurricanes are an especially difficult time for pets. Many owners find it difficult to evacuate with their pets since neither the owners nor the pets are prepared for such a situation. Pets often get lost, stranded, or abandoned unintentionally and all this can prove to be very traumatic for your pets.This is why it is important to prepare well in advance for the hurricane season. Here are a few tips to ensure that your pets stay safe during the hurricane season.

Take photos of all your pets

You need to make sure that you have the latest photos of all your pets in hand. This way it will be easier for you to hunt them down in case they get lost. Getting lost is inevitable in some cases and you need to be prepared to handle such a situation.If possible, get your pet an ID tag. A pet ID can prove to be helpful in a number of ways and will help you locate your pets faster in case they get lost. Add a name and a contact number on your pet's ID tag.

Plan ahead

If you are in an area prone to hurricanes, it is best to have an action plan in place. Plan how you will evacuate if need be and how you are going to home your pets. Are you taking them with you? Do you plan to leave them at a friend's house? Plan in detail so that you won't need to think twice in a confusing situation.

Move your pets in advance

Instead of waiting until the last minute to evacuate your pets, try getting it done ahead of the hurricane. Move your pets temporarily to a safe housing with a friend or family member. If possible, house your pets somewhere else until the hurricane season is over. This way you don’t have to worry about your pet's safety.

Keep an emergency pet supplies ready

Prepare an emergency kit for your pets. The kit should contain a carrier, documents and details regarding your pets, some spare food, warm clothing, and a muzzle, collar, and leash if you happen to have dogs.

Train your pets

Cats and dogs tend to get antsy during hurricanes, so it is important that you train them to follow your commands and stay calm. You should be able to impose dominance and make sure that your pets stay focused and obedient.