Tips for Evacuating your pets during a Hurricane and Extreme Weather

We are all well-prepared for emergencies to a certain extent. Maybe you have some “go-bag” in your home or perhaps a kit for safety in your vehicle. One of the most crucial aspects of a safety program is to keep your family out of a dangerous situation, including evacuating pets.

What do you do with your pet in the aftermath of a hurricane

Pets and hurricanes are terrifying, so ensuring your pets are secure during a crisis is crucial. If you’re unsure what you should do with your pet during an emergency, this is the ideal time to devise an emergency plan. Evacuating pets can be more complex than simply putting them in a car and heading away from the city. Creating an evacuation plan is essential to ensure you are ready for emergencies.

Create a pet evacuation plan

While evacuation plans for pets may differ based on your pet type, They should include where your pet will be and how they get there. Similar to their parents, pets may be anxious. Watch out for anxiety signs in your pet in stressful situations. Cats can also get nervous; try to calm them to a level before you travel.

Other factors to be considered:

Ensure your pet is wearing an ID tag and a microchip.

Keep a recent photo of your pet on your smartphone (we know this will not be an issue for any pet!)

Get a pet-friendly carrier, and then practice taking your pet inside or out at home. The pet carrier should be branded with your name, contact information and phone number, and the pet’s name.

Make sure you have extra leashes and harnesses in your possession.

Choose shelters that are pet-friendly to be prepared if the day comes that you’re required the need to live in one.

Create an emergency plan with designated caretakers to look after your pet if you’re incapable.

Separate cats and dogs into their pet carriers. In extreme situations, it can trigger anxiety in animals, and they could get angry at one another even though they usually are in a good relationship.

Install a rescue alert sign on the front of the home. The sticker should contain details about the pets who live within the home. It could save pets’ lives in the case of a fire or flooding.

Be sure not to expose your dog to extremely cold conditions (hot and cold). This is crucial when you travel in a car.

Prepare your pet emergency kit (details below).

What are the essentials you should have to take with you when evacuating your pet

Pet emergency kits must contain everything needed to last for two weeks.

Food

Bottled water

Water and food bowls

Pet carriers

Medical documents

The Medications (if appropriate)

Poop bags

Kitty litter

Any pet-friendly items you may require (like blankets, beds, or a toy)

Kit of first aid for pets as well as a book (ask your veterinarian what items to include)

Disposable litter tray (aluminum roasting pans are ideal)

Disinfectant and liquid dish soap

Flashlight

Pets and hotels during hurricanes

Contact motels and hotels outside your residence to determine whether they allow pets. Find out if there are any restrictions on the number, size, or species. Even hotels that do not have a pet policy may waive it in an emergency. Make a list with animal-friendly locations in mind, and make an appointment whenever you suspect you’ll need to evacuate your home. Don’t wait until you receive an evacuation notice, be prepared!