Adding Your Pet to Your Hurricane Plan

When preparing for a hurricane, you know many of the things you should do: stock up on non-perishable food and batteries, know the location of safe shelters to ride out the storm and review evacuation routes. Many pet owners often forget to consider their pets in their hurricane preparedness plans. A little preparation and thought ahead of time can prevent a lot of frustration for you and your pet later.

Make sure your pet is current on all vaccinations

Before hurricane season hits, make sure your pet has received its required vaccinations, and put documentation of these vaccinations in a safe place where you can lay your hands on it quickly in the event of an emergency. Emergency shelters likely require this documentation.

Have on hand a current photograph of your pet

In your pet preparedness file, place a photograph of your pet in case he or she gets separated from you, or loses his or her collar. This makes it much easier when the time comes to claim your pet from the center.

Keep a collar, leash and pet carrier handy

You certainly need a collar with your pet's identification on it and a leash to control your pet in the event you have to enter a facility where other pets are located. It also keeps your pet from running away if he or she is spooked by the inclement weather. Also, make sure you have a pet carrier that is large enough for your pet to stand and turn around while residing inside.

When you add pet care into your emergency preparedness plan, you avoid worry when and if an actual disaster strikes.