Hurricane Season

By Coco the Cat

The people here keep talking about hurricane season. Now, I don’t know what a hurricane is, but it sounds bad. It sounds really bad, like I might even get wet if it happens! All this chattering by my people made me think that I should tell you, my loyal fans, what you should do in order to prepare for this most horrible of events. I wouldn’t want your cats to get wet!

Before a Storm is Threatening

These are things you’ll want to do for your pets BEFORE even the threat of a storm:

1. Make sure your pets are up to date on their vaccines. If you have to pack up and leave, or go to a shelter, you will be required that your pets are up to date on their core vaccines, especially Rabies.
2. Make sure you have a carrier for your pet and that they are comfortable staying in it for extended periods of time. If you have to go to a shelter, your pets will be required to stay in their crate. If you pets are not comfortable in a confined space, now is the time to start teaching them it’s ok!
3. Make sure you have enough supplies for your pets. Cats will need food and water bowls and litter boxes too! They do make small, portable ones.
4. Get familiar with pet friendly shelters in your area, and make sure you are familiar with their regulation. You can also make advance arrangements with a friend or family member that can put you and your pets up during a storm. DO NOT assume you can board your pet during a hurricane. The staff at your boarding facility is likely to be evacuating if you are, and they won’t be able to take pets.
5. Prepare a travel first aid kit that includes bandage materials, nail trimmers, antibiotic cream, and tweezers.
6. Your pets should all have identification. We recommend that all pets be microchipped here, but they should also have a collar and tag with current numbers. If your pet is already microchipped, now is the time to make sure the microchip is registered with your current information!

When the Storm is Coming

1. Make sure you have at least a weeks worth of food and water on hand for each pet!
2. Put those collars and tags on everyone!
3. Make sure you have at LEAST one weeks worth of your pets medications in their original bottles.
4. Make sure you have copies of your pets medical records that you can take with you wherever you go.

During the Storm

1. If you choose to stay home during a storm, you still need to make sure you have plenty of food, water, medications, and medical supplies as you may not have access to fresh, clean water, power, or your vehicle for a long time.
2. Get your dog’s outside to potty before the storm hits. They should not go outside during the active storm, as there may be debris flying that can hurt them or you, and some small dogs could have problems with the wind. If they have to potty during the storm, pee pads are a good alternative.
3. If you pet is afraid, stay with them and comfort them. If they prefer to hide, let them. Feeding them really yummy treats may help them feel better.
4. After the storm, keep your pet out of standing water, it could be harboring parasites or diseases you don’t want them to contract
5. Watch out for snakes and alligators that may have been displaced by the storm. They are likely to be a bit cranky, and there are far too many venomous snakes in this area!