Hurricane Preparedness for Pets in Mt. Pleasant, SC
As pet owners, our furry companions are more than just animals; they are cherished members of our families. During hurricane season, our priority should extend beyond our own safety to also ensure the well-being of our beloved pets. With hurricanes becoming increasingly common and unpredictable, it is essential to have a well-thought-out plan in place to protect our pets during these tumultuous times. Here are some valuable tips and guidelines to ensure that our pets stay safe and secure during hurricanes.
Take the necessary steps to hurricane-proof your home, including securing doors and windows, and reinforcing areas where your pets stay to prevent them from escaping. Remove any hazardous objects that might cause harm to your pets during strong winds.
Why Pet Owners in Mt. Pleasant, SC Need to Plan for Hurricanes
Hurricane Season starts June 1st and does not end until November 30th. Each year can be very unpredictable, but planning can make an evacuation event much less stressful for everyone, including your furry companions. Our pets rely on us for their safety and well-being, especially during natural disasters like hurricanes. Being well-prepared can make all the difference in ensuring their safety and reducing their stress during these challenging times. By creating an evacuation plan, preparing an emergency kit, updating their identification, practicing stress-reducing techniques, securing your home, and having a post-hurricane plan, you can safeguard your furry friends and provide them with the love and care they deserve, even in the face of a powerful storm. Remember, being prepared is the best way to protect our pets and keep them safe throughout hurricane season.
How to Build a Pet Emergency Kit for Hurricane Season
Just like you would prepare an emergency kit for yourself, create a separate kit for your pets.
This kit should include essential items such as:
- Sufficient food and water to last for at least five days.
- Medications and medical records in a waterproof container.
- Pet first aid supplies.
- Collar, leash, and harness with identification tags.
- Pet carriers or crates.
- Comfort items like blankets and toys to keep them at ease during stressful times.
- A photo id of you and your pet together.
Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe and Calm During a Hurricane
Hurricanes can be stressful for pets, especially with the loud noises and unfamiliar surroundings. Before the storm arrives, practice stress-reducing techniques with your pets, such as crate training or desensitization to loud sounds. This preparation will help keep your pets calm during the hurricane.
- Mind your body language. It may be hard, but try not show your anxiety. If you jump when you hear loud wind or noises, your dog will, too. They may also see your momentary fear as a sign that something is seriously wrong.
- Give your dog a safe place. Placing you dog in a crate can give them a sense of security. Just be mindful of potential flooding in your home and keeping the crate where you are.
- Try a Thundershirt. Thundershirts are vests designed to ease anxiety in dogs. They fit snuggly, and the pressure helps alleviate stress during storms.
- Make sure to leash walk your dog. Even if your dog never leaves your yard, they may run away when scared. It is better to leash walk them and be able to bring them inside at a moments notice when taking them outside to potty.
Check https://www.bringfido.com for the most up-to-date lists for Pet-Friendly hotels.
Returning Home After a Hurricane: Pet Safety Tips
After the hurricane passes, it may take time before it's safe to return home. Have a plan in place for temporary accommodation and assess the safety of your home before bringing your pets back. Be cautious of debris or dangerous substances that may pose a threat to your pets.
The Importance of Microchipping Pets in Hurricane-Prone Areas
In the chaos of an evacuation, pets can easily get separated from their owners. To increase the chances of a reunion, ensure your pet's identification is up to date with current contact information. Consider microchipping your pet if you haven't already, as it significantly increases the likelihood of a happy reunion should they become lost during the storm.
Schedule a Post-Hurricane Wellness Check at AACMP
Our team of veterinarians are here to make sure your pet is healthy and happy. If you have concerns for your pet. reach out to schedule a visits once the storm passes. As long as it is safe to do so, we will re-open for appointments as soon as we can after a hurricane. Check out our website and social posts for the latest updated hours and information.