Anyone in the Houston area knows how important it is to be prepared for hurricane season. This couldn’t be truer when it comes to our pets. We’ll look at some of the top tips to make sure you’re ready to keep your pets safe throughout hurricane season.
Put Together a Hurricane Kit
Creating a kit that includes basic survival items can help keep your pet happy and comfortable during a Houston hurricane. Here are some ideas of what you might include in your kit.
- Food and Water– a least a 3-day supply
- Collar or harness with ID tag and leash
- Pet carrier or crate
- First aid kit – Having some things like cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape, and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution can make a huge difference.
- Medicine and Medical Records – Schedule a reminder before hurricane season to keep vaccines current.
- Cleanliness supplies – litter, litter box, newspapers, paper towels, trash bags, cleaner
- Current photo – in the event you are separated from your pet this photo, especially if the two of you are both in the photo, will prove ownership and help others identify your lost friend. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing marks.
- Comfort objects – familiar items like treats, toys, bedding will help reduce stress.
Plan Ahead
You don’t want to have to leave your pets behind. That’s why a plan is so important.
- Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your pets if you’re unable to make it back to your home.
- Research pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities along the evacuation path you would take. Also, make a list of out-of-town friends or relatives who may be able to assist you.
- Have your pet microchipped! Even if they always stay indoors. Make sure your address and phone number are up-to-date.
- If you must board your pet, they may need your pet’s medical records, so make sure their vaccines are current.
Large Pets Need a Plan Too
If you have larger animals like horses, cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, make sure you take steps to ensure they will be safe in the event of a hurricane.
- Make sure all animals have some form of identification on them.
- Evacuate your animals if possible. Plan for a primary and secondary route, if possible.
- Plan to have vehicles, trailers, experienced handlers, and drivers available to transport your animals.
- Call ahead to make sure that your destination will have food, water, veterinary care, and handling equipment.
Continue Your Disaster Research
Russell & Smith Ford put together a great list here for you, but there are more tips out there. Check out what the ASPCA has to say about disaster preparedness. Take steps to make sure you and your home are protected as well. Be safe this hurricane season!
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