Preparing Your Pet For a Hurricane Evacuation

It’s hurricane season.  With the peak time for a storm coming in September, now is the time to have a plan in place for your pets in case one hits your area.  When preparing your pet for a hurricane evacuation, you want to have a plan in place to ensure your pet is safe. This plan should consider whether he or she stays with you during the storm, or has to seek shelter elsewhere. 

Keep reading to learn some items you should use to create a pet hurricane evacuation kit. 

Pet carrier

If you have to or choose to evacuate your home you want to have the appropriate pet carrier available for your furry friends.

You also want to label the carrier with your pet’s name, a description of your pet, your name, and contact information.  If you are separated from your loved one, this information will increase the likelihood that you’re reunited. 

If your pet isn’t used to being transported in a carrier, practice the process.  Your practice process can be similar to when you get your pet accustomed to getting his or her nails trimmed.  Start young. Provide treats. Remove the pressure associated with being in the carrier. 

Pet food and water 

You want to have at least a 2 week supply.  Keep the food in an airtight container and bring any supplies you might need, such as a can opener if you use canned food. 

Since getting clean water can be difficult during a hurricane, you also want to have a 2 week supply of water on hand as well. 

Pet leash and collar

Also, include a leash and a collar for your pet.  If the collar has an identification tag with your pet’s name and your contact information, that’s even better. 

You want to keep your pet safe during the hurricane evacuation, so if he or she isn’t in a crate, the leash should be used to prevent separation. 

Pet-friendly shelter options

You should know your hurricane evacuation route in advance, so research shelters, boarding facilities, and pet-friendly hotels along the way. The last thing you want to do is research this information on the spot when you should be focusing on getting to safety. 

Pet first aid kit

In your pet first aid kit, you want to include all necessary medications such as flea medicine and heartworm medicine.  Also, include items in case there is an injury like gauze, adhesive tape, styptic powder, etc. 

Medical history

Keep an updated medical history for your pet.  You should update it annually, or as new information becomes available from the veterinarian regarding care, shots, medication dosages, etc. 

Pet identification file 

You want to be able to prove that your pet belongs to you. Get a waterproof folder and place these items inside: 

  • Current photographs of your pet
  • Current pictures of you with your pet
  • Your pet’s microchip identification number if applicable
  • Adoption papers
  • A description of your pet along with distinctive markings

Other items to include 

Also, consider what might make an evacuation more comfortable for your furry friend and easier for you when caring for him or her. Ideas include toys, blankets, treats, litter supplies, and poop bags for clean up.

It’s better to be safe than sorry when preparing for a hurricane evacuation

Hopefully, you will never have to use your hurricane evacuation kit.  But in case you do, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Too many pets are separated from their families during storms or hurt due to the lack of a plan. 

At Crate Escape Pet Care, we are invested in the happiness and safety of your pet in every way. So whether you need dog walking or pet sitting services or advice about various aspects of being a pet owner, we’re here to provide support.