How to Keep Pets Safe During a Hurricane

Make a Pet Emergency Kit

• 1

  Start with the basics of food and water. Have enough food and water for at least seven days. Dry pet food should be placed in airtight containers. Moist dog food and cat food now come in easy open pouches that weigh much less than canned food. If including canned pet food, make sure you have a manual can opener and pet food covers. Water quantity will vary according to the size of your pet, but should be at least a quart a day. Include bowls and a spoon for dishing out food.

• 2

  Add any medications your pet may be taking or may need. Allergy medications, flea medications and heart worm preventatives should be included as well. Keep your pet's medical information in the kit, including a copy of any medical conditions and/or treatments along with the veterinarian's phone number.

• 3

  Buy an extra leash and collar for the kit. Pets can wriggle out of their collar and leash if they are fearful. You may even want to buy a harness for your pet; the harness encircles the chest so you don't have to worry about a collar coming off.

• 4

  Remember to include kitty litter or newspapers for your pet. Also include disposable bags and a scooper. It's a good idea to keep a roll or two of paper towels for clean-ups as well.

• 5

  Include comfort items for your pet such as a favorite toy and treats. Don't forget to add familiar blankets, bedding and extra towels to dry them if they get wet.

Where to Stay if Evacuating

• 6

  Determine where your pet will stay if evacuation is necessary. The best place for your pet during a hurricane is with you if possible. Make plans well ahead of the hurricane to keep your pet safe.

• 7

  Ask a relative or close friend if you and your pet can stay with them if necessary. Staying with family or friends is much less stressful on both you and your pet than a shelter.

• 8

  Locate pet-friendly motels. Many motels are pet-friendly year round, such as Motel 6. Other motels will allow pets for an additional charge, while still others will allow pets during emergencies.

• 9

  Call your veterinarian, as he may have safe kennels available during an emergency. If his office does not offer kennels, he may suggest another kennel.

• 10

  Contact your local county emergency management department. They will be able to tell you of the locations of any local shelters that allow pets. This should be your absolute last choice and used only in emergencies.

Sheltering at Home

• 11

  Evacuate if ordered to do so or if in an evacuation zone, but do so early. If you are staying at home, make a safe place for your pet during the hurricane.

• 12

  Prepare an area in your own safe room for your pet. Keep the emergency supply kit in the safe room with you. If your pet has a carrier, place bedding inside and allow your pet to stay in the carrier. You may want to cover him to help him feel more secure, as though he is in a den.

• 13

  Secure any exits your pet could escape from, lock doors and close windows. Also secure any doggy doors or known escape routes your pet may use. Pets can get extremely frightened during a storm and may try to escape.

After the Hurricane

• 14

  Exit the safe room only after the hurricane has passed, including the eye.

• 15

  Make sure your pet is on a leash before opening the safe room door.

• 16

  Watch for objects that could cause injury to your pet.

• 17

  Keep your pet on a leash until smells and surroundings become familiar again to him.

• 18

  Keep your pet away from water that could be contaminated with gasoline or oil.

• 19

  Watch your pet for signs of illness or stress, and contact your veterinarian when needed.