Making Sure Your Pet Is Ready For Disaster

As we watch the Atlantic begin churning into storms, in Florida we prepare for the arrival hurricane season and the potential disasters that come with it. Part of that preparation includes having food and water supplies, making sure our families know the emergency plan, knowing how to evacuate and so forth. Unfortunately many families do not properly prepare for their pets.

The NHC-NOAA has developed a pet hurricane preparedness checklist to help owners be ready in case of disaster. Here is some of what it recommends:

Like Boyscout - Be Prepared

Before a hurricane hits, here are some things to make sure you've planned and/or done:

• Make sure your pet is current on his or her vaccines and you have proper documentation. Shelters may turn you away without it.


• Keep a picture of your pet handy


• Be sure your pet's collar is up-to-date wiht the right identification on it


• Keep an extra leash in your car or suitcase so you don't have try to remember to pack it during an emergency


• Have a properly sized pet carrier if you must evacuate. Appropriate size means they have enough room to stand up and turn around.


• Be sure your planned pet shelter is included in your evacuation strategy.

How to Handle an a Weather Emergency

• First, make sure you don't leave your pets outside during any type of inclement weather. Even during a heavy thunderstorm leaving your animal outside can cause serious harm, both physically and psychologically.


• Keep a stock of our pets necessary supplies like food, bowls, news papers and trash bags.


• Make sure you call your shelter before stopping by to make sure there's still room.

When Nature Subsides

• Take time to help your pet become reoriented with their home environment. This is especially true is sever property damage occurred. After the clean-up is complete, give your animal time to adjust and become familiar with how things are now.


• Contact your local animal control office if your pet has gone missing. Be sure to provide a current picture of your pet.


• Keep an observant eye on your pet for enhanced aggression or defensive behavior. Seek the advice of your veterinarian if it becomes unmanageable.

Be sure you're prepared for the disaster potentials in your area, whether it's hurricanes or blizzards, and make sure you think of your companion along the way. Here's to a quiet and safe hurricane season!