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Defending Coastlines Through Science & Preparedness
Defending Coastlines Through Science & Preparedness
Pet Safety During Hurricanes: A Complete Survival Guide
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Hurricanes pose serious risks not just to people, but also to pets. Taking pet safety into consideration in advance will keep you better prepared. Every year, animals are injured, lost, or even killed during storms because owners weren’t fully prepared. Whether you’re evacuating or sheltering in place, this guide will help you keep your pets safe before, during, and after a hurricane.
🐾 Hurricane Pet Prep Checklist (Quick List)**
✅ **ID & Records** – Microchip updated, collar tag, vaccination records.
✅ **Emergency Kit** – Food (7+ days), water, meds, leash, carrier, waste bags.
✅ **Evacuation Plan** – Pet-friendly shelters/hotels, transport carrier.
✅ **Comfort Items** – Familiar toys, blanket, treats to reduce stress.
✅ **Post-Storm Safety** – Avoid floodwater, check for hazards.
🌪️ Step 1: Before the Hurricane – Pet Preparedness**
### **📅 72+ Hours Before Landfall**
✔ **Stock Up on Supplies** – At least **two weeks’ worth** of food, water (1 gallon per pet/day), and medications.
✔ **Update ID & Microchip** – Ensure contact info is current in case you’re separated.
✔ **Locate Pet-Friendly Shelters** – Not all emergency shelters accept pets. Check:
– **Red Cross shelters** (some allow pets)
– **Pet-friendly hotels** (bringproof.com)
– **Local animal shelters** (some offer emergency boarding)
✔ **Practice Evacuation** – Get pets comfortable with carriers/car rides.
### **🏠 Pet-Proofing Your Home**
– **Bring pets indoors** well before the storm hits (even outdoor pets).
– **Secure crates** in a safe, windowless room (bathroom, closet).
– **Prepare a “safe zone”** with bedding, food, and a litter box for cats.
## **🌀 Step 2: During the Hurricane – Keeping Pets Safe**
– **Keep pets confined** (even dogs that are normally free-roaming).
– **Stay calm** – Pets sense anxiety; soothing voices help.
– **Avoid windows** – Flying debris can shatter glass.
– **Use a leash/harness** if moving to a safer area inside.
### **⚠️ If Flooding Occurs:**
– **Never leave pets chained outside** – Rising water can trap them.
– **Small pets?** Carry them—**6 inches of fast-moving water can sweep them away.**
– **If evacuating last-minute**, take pets with you—**never leave them behind!**
## **🌤️ Step 3: After the Hurricane – Pet Recovery**
### **🚨 Immediate Safety Checks**
– **Check for injuries** (paws, eyes, breathing issues from stress).
– **Avoid contaminated water** – Floodwater can carry toxins and bacteria.
– **Keep pets leashed** – Familiar scents may be gone, increasing the risk of them getting lost.
### **🛠️ Long-Term Recovery Tips**
✔ **Monitor behavior** – Stress can cause aggression or illness.
✔ **Stick to routines** – Helps pets feel secure.
✔ **Check lost pet databases** – If your pet goes missing:
– **PawBoost**
– **Local shelters & Facebook groups**
– **Nextdoor app**
### **🚫 Beware of Post-Storm Dangers**
– **Downed power lines** (pets may step on live wires).
– **Wild animals** (snakes, displaced wildlife may be aggressive).
– **Toxic debris** (chemical spills, sharp objects).
## **🔗 Additional Resources**
– **ASPCA Disaster Preparedness**
– **FEMA Pet Preparedness**
– **Pet-Friendly Hotel Finder**
## **💬 Final Tip: Practice Now!**
Don’t wait until a storm is approaching—**test your pet’s carrier, pack a go-bag, and locate shelters today.**
**📢 Share this guide—saving pets starts with preparation!**
By planning ahead, you can ensure your furry (or scaly, or feathery) family members stay safe through any storm. **Stay prepared!** 🐶🐱🐦
