Preparing for Hurricane Season With Pets

As hurricane season approaches, it’s critical to prepare not only for your own safety but also for the well-being of your pets. Emergencies often strike with little warning, and having a plan—and a well-stocked pet emergency kit—can make all the difference in keeping your furry family members safe and healthy.

While many people remember to stock up on food, water, batteries, and flashlights for themselves, pets have their own set of needs that can’t be overlooked during a storm. Here’s how to prepare your pets for hurricane season, starting with a comprehensive pet emergency kit.

Creating a Pet Emergency Kit: What You’ll Need

Your pet emergency kit should be ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Here are the essential items to include:

7 Days of Food and Water

Ensure you have at least one week’s worth of food and water for each pet. If you use canned food, don’t forget to include a manual can opener. Store food in airtight, waterproof containers to keep it fresh and safe.

 One Week’s Worth of Medication

If your pet takes medication, include a week’s supply in the kit. Be sure to rotate medications periodically to ensure they don’t expire. Talk to your veterinarian about keeping an emergency stash on hand.

 Pet Carrier or Kennel

A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier is vital, especially if you need to evacuate to a shelter or hotel. It should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Extra Leash and Collar

Keep an extra leash and a collar with ID tags in your emergency kit. If your pet gets lost during a storm, identification greatly increases the chances of being reunited.

Pet ID Tags, Rabies Vaccination Tag, and Collar

Make sure your pet wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags at all times. Include their rabies tag and consider microchipping for added security.

Spare Bedding

Pack an extra blanket or towel to provide comfort and warmth. This can also be used to dry your pet if they get wet during the storm.

Medical and Vaccination Records

Keep printed copies of medical and vaccination records in a waterproof pouch. These may be required to enter pet-friendly shelters or boarding facilities.

Additional Tips for Hurricane Prep with Pets

• Plan Your Evacuation Route: Know which shelters, hotels, or friends’ homes can accommodate pets. Not all emergency shelters allow animals, so planning ahead is essential.
• Keep Photos of Your Pet: Have a current photo of your pet (with you in it) to help identify them if you get separated.
• Practice Crate Time: If your pet isn’t used to being in a carrier, practice short periods of crate time in advance to reduce anxiety during an evacuation.
• Update Microchip Information: Make sure your contact details are current with your pet’s microchip registration service.

Pets are family, and just like people, they need proper care and preparation during a disaster. Taking the time now to assemble a pet emergency kit and make a plan can protect your pet’s health—and your peace of mind—when a hurricane hits. By planning ahead, you’ll ensure that no one in your household, human or animal, is left behind.

Stay safe—and stay prepared.

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Posted by Liz on Jun 18 2025. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.