During hurricane season, there can be times of flooding and you may find yourself either evacuated or trapped in your flooded home with your pet. It is important to keep both you and your pet safe and healthy until you can return to normalcy. Here are a few tips from the NOMC on how to prepare for care of your pet during a hurricane:

paw print

Display a Pet Rescue Alert Sticker on your home. This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure that it is visible to rescue workers (we recommend placing it on or near your front door), and that it includes the types and number of pets in your home as well as the name and phone number of your veterinarian. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write “EVACUATED” across the stickers. Purchase stickers online 6-8 weeks before you expect to need it: https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/order-your-pet-safety-pack

graphic pf person making a plan

Should the need for evacuation arise, make a plan ahead of time. Find pet-friendly shelters, hotels or motels where you can stop along your evacuation route. State parks or camping areas outside of the hurricane danger zone are a great option for those with pets as well.

graphic of paw print under house roof

Arrange a safe haven for your pet(s) if you can’t take them with you. Note that not all shelters accept pets. In the event of an evacuation, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. If your home isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets. Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets. Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets. Ask friends and relatives outside of your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet should you have to evacuate.

graphic of flooded house

If the event that it floods and you find yourself trapped in your home, take your pets and go to the highest location in your house, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter. Also, maintaining access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important for both you and your pet. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises.

PREPARE EMERGENCY PET SUPPLIES AND TRAVELING KITS

graphic of pet collar

Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification information. Your pet’s ID tag should contain its name, its urgent medical needs, and your name and phone number. BE SURE you have a sturdy travel bag/crate for each pet. Write your pet’s name, your name and contact information on each pets’ carrier. Keep the name and phone number of your vet handy. Copies of vet records (either on paper or digital) in a ziploc bag. Keep recent photos of your pet with you in case you get separated.

graphic of first aid kit and other pet supplies

Store an emergency pet kit as close to an exit in your home as possible. Make sure that everyone in your household knows where it is, and that it clearly labeled and easy to carry. Include items such as:

  • Pet medications and pet first-aid kit
  • 7 days of (pop-top) canned or dry food (rotate/refresh every 2 months) in a waterproof bin
  • 7 days worth of bottled water for each pet
  • Pet treats
  • Food and water dishes/containers
  • Pet toys and balls
  • Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans work) and litter for cats
  • Disposable garbage/poop bags
  • Disposable rubber gloves
  • Liquid dish soap
  • Antibacterial wipes
  • Towel for each pet
  • Flashlight or headlamp and fresh batteries
  • Extra leash and collar