Citrus Animal Clinic

Hurricane Preparedness For Your Pet

BEFORE THE STORM PREPARE

Have a Plan

Most shelters do not accept pets.  Know where you can go in the event you must evacuate.  If you are going to stay with a friend or family member be sure to advise them you would like to bring your pet.  If you plan to stay at a hotel you must call first to assure they are 'pet friendly'.  These hotels fill quickly so call before you start driving.  A list of 'pet friendly' hotels can be found on www.petswelcome.com.

Food

Have a two week supply of food ready to take when the storm is approaching.  If your pet is on a prescription diet, consider a four week supply since it may be difficult to go back home promptly after a storm or there may be short term delays in delivery due to the aftermath of a storm.  Due to the stress of the evacuation your pet may have a change of eating habits.

Medications

Any pet taking medication on a regular basis should have at least a one month supply available.  You may also discuss the use of sedatives with your veterinarian in the event your pet needs them during a storm.

Identifications

This is a critical step in your planning.  While collars and ID tags are sometimes helpful, they can come off, break or get lost.  We strongly encourage anyone with pets in Florida to have a permanent identification in the form of a Microchip.  Microchips are transponders no bigger than a grain of rice implanted under your pets skin between the shoulder blades.  This is a simple procedure done by your veterinarian.  The microchip cannot be altered or fall off your pet.  Veterinarians and Animal Control or Shelters scan your pet for the microchip and then contact a national database registry to help reunite you with your pet.  It is important that you register the microchip in a database registry to facilitate recovery of your pet.  Also it would help to bring a current picture of your pet with you to help identification.

WHAT TO TAKE CHECKLIST

  • Crate or Cage
  • Leash & Collar
  • Medications
  • Food/Water
  • Bowls
  • Litter Box & Litter / Waste Cleanup Needs
  • Bedding & Toys
  • Proof of Vaccinations

DURING THE STORM

When possible, keep your pet confined to a small, safe room or to a crate during the storm.  If your pet has a stressful reactions when a storm is near, you should discuss with your veterinarian, whether sedation is an option.  This discussion should be done prior to the storm when you have the time to procure the medication and instruction for administration.  Due to the weather conditions and stress on your pet, it may not be possible to take your pet outdoors to eliminate and there may be accidents indoors.  Be prepared for clean-up.  If your pet is on medications maintain a regular schedule.  Try to remain calm so as not to further stress you pet.  Safety for you and your pet requires you to be aware of your surroundings and have a plan.

AFTER THE STORM

Lost Pets

If your pet has been lost, call your veterinarian and Animal Control to file a report.  A visit to the local Animal Control or shelter with a picture and the microchip identification number may facilitate recovery.  If you find a lost pet, approach it carefully as it may be injured or scared and not react as it normally would.  Contact Animal Control immediately and watch where the pet goes if you are unable to pick it up.

Injured Pets

If your pet is in need of medical attention contact your veterinarian immediately or go to any animal hospital in the area or animal emergency clinic.

GOING HOME

Once home, do not take your pet into the house until you have inspected your house.  Check for damage and openings where your pet may escape once brought into the house.  When you bring your pet into the house keep it confined in a safe room or crate until you have the opportunity to clean up.  Your pet may still be scared or stressed and try to escape so be careful when opening doors.

YOUR SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF YOUR PETS ARE OUR FIRST CONCERN!