Hurricane Preparedness for your Dog
Hurricane season in Florida is June 1st through November 30th. Tropical storms and hurricanes can affect everyone and anyone, including your pets. As pet owners in a hurricane-prone area, we need to make certain that we protect our dog(s) from the health and safety concerns that can arise during a storm. During a hurricane, dogs can be exposed to many of the same dangers as people. We should be prepared to keep each pet safe both during and after a storm.
Make an Emergency Plan for Your Pup
Well before a disaster strikes, a family should have an emergency plan in place. A good emergency plan includes making decisions such as whether to evacuate, where you will, how you will communicate with family and each other if you become separated, and what choices you have if you are unable to return home after the storm. Your emergency plan should include a designated caregiver (relative or trusted neighbor) who can look after your pets if you are unable to reach them during an emergency. You can also place a rescue alert sticker on your door or window to notify first responders that there are pets inside your home who need to be evacuated.
Link to Free Pet Safety Pack from ASPCA https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/pet-safety-pack
Link to Free Rescue Alert Window Stickers from DogWatch https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/mql94ll/DogWatchAlertStickerFB
Whether you decide to evacuate or stay in your home during a hurricane or other natural disaster, it is important to have an emergency kit prepared for your dog. Your kit should include all the essentials your pup will need to ride out the storm, including:
Food and fresh water, enough for at least three days
Dog pee pads if unable to go potty outside, paper towels, cleaning supplies, and garbage bags for clean-up
Doggy Medications and prescriptions
Current Dog Medical records
Contact information for your veterinarian and closest emergency vet clinic
Treats and toys to keep your dog busy
Collar and Leash with tags (double check that it is readable and current information)
List of pet-friendly shelters or hotels, in case you need to evacuate
Note: if your family is ordered to evacuate, you should take your pets with you. If it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets.
Microchipping Your Dog
A microchip can easily be placed under your dog’s skin by your veterinarian, and it contains a unique ID number that is used to look up your contact information. This information can be read by any chip reader (veterinarian, dog rescue shelter, etc.) Be sure the contact information associated with your dog’s microchip is kept up-to-date. This can typically be done on the microchip manufacturer’s website and is either free or a minimal charge. If you become separated from your dog during a natural disaster, this is your best chance to be reunited. If you have moved or your phone number has changed is not current with chip company, the chip will not direct officials on where you or how to contact you.
Your dog should wear a collar and an ID tags that has your contact info on it. The tags should include the dog’s name and your phone number…at the very least. If your dog has major health issues that require medication, this information should be on the tag to help ensure your dog receives medical attention quickly.
Hurricane-Related Preventive Care for Your Dog
Hurricanes bring rain and flooding, which lead to an increased prevalence of illnesses (i.e. heartworm disease and leptospirosis). If you are not able to return home after the storm, your dog may need to spend time in a boarding kennel or shelter environment, which could mean exposure to contagious diseases such as kennel cough. Keeping parasite prevention medications and vaccinations up-to-date will help your dog stays healthy despite sudden changes to environment. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best preventive care routine for your pup based on the common illnesses in your area.
It is important to make sure your pet has access to fresh food and water, both during and after the storm. Your dog’s food should be stored in a watertight container to prevent contamination. Flood waters are usually contaminated with bacteria, mold, and parasites that can make your dog seriously ill, so don’t allow your dog to drink from any water source that you would not drink from yourself. If you don’t have a supply of safe food and water for your dog, emergency rescue workers should be able to direct you to a shelter that is equipped to provide disaster relief for those with pets.
After the Hurricane
Once the danger has dissipated, you’ll need to assess your dog, particularly if you were separated during the storm. Look for any signs that your dog needs medical attention, such as:
Wounds or injuries
Limping, swelling or signs of pain
Changes in appetite
Changes in behavior
Changes in energy level
Coughing, sneezing, wheezing or discharge from the nose
Vomiting or diarrhea
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you are concerned about your dog’s health following the hurricane, it is always a good idea to make an appointment for an examination by a veterinarian. Some veterinarians are deployed as part of a disaster-relief team and will be on hand to provide medical care for pets affected.
After being cooped up during the storm, we all want to get outside. To get air, assess damages, and restock supplies. It is wiser to walk your dog on a leash until you have checked everything out. There could be hazards such as downed power lines or fallen trees that could further injure your furry friend.
Hurricanes are scary for everyone, but being prepared can help keep you and your pets safe. With good preparation, your furry companion will be protected throughout the storm.
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