When a storm warning is broadcasted, you'll have to take precautions to protect your family and possessions.Don't forget your dog, cat, bird, fish, and whatever other pets you have in the process.Taking care of them during a storm is dependent on having shelter and supplies for them, and being able to evacuate them to safety if need be.
Step 1: If possible, bring your pets inside.
It's important to stay under cover during a storm.If there is a storm warning issued in your area, you should bring your pets inside.It's important to give them shelter with your other family members during a storm.Pick them up if you can or put a leash on them and pull them inside.It is better to use force with your pet than to leave them outside during a storm.Pets are not allowed to leave your shelter.If you have to restrain your pets, keep doors and windows closed.If there is an emergency, you should evacuate with your pet.If you run a mock drill, you can reward your pet with a safe space.They will be less concerned in the event of an emergency.
Step 2: If you aren't home, look for a shelter for your pets.
If you're not at home during a storm, you may need to find a shelter.If you are away from home, find a neighbor who is willing to take in your pet.It is a good idea to have a neighbor who is willing to take your pet in an emergency.Make sure this person has your phone number, instructions for your pet's care, and a signed authorization from you that they can seek veterinary care.You can find a cattery outside the disaster zone that will accept your pet.They are likely to give priority to existing clients if you use this shelter at other times.This will make your pet feel better.
Step 3: Large animals should be taken to a safe location.
Pets can't fit in a home during a storm.If you don't have a place to put a large animal, such as a horse, at home, you will need to find another place.If neighbors or family members have room to shelter your horse, you should contact them.If you can't move your animal to a safer location, you'll have to decide between turning them outside or moving them to another shelter.
Step 4: Your pet should be on a leash or carrier.
It's a good idea to keep an eye on your pet while in a sheltered area.If you have to evacuate quickly, you won't be able to grab your pet if it gets loose.If your dog is used to being on a leash, then that may be the best option.It will allow you to bring your pet with you.If your pet has never been on a leash, then a carrier is the best option.You should keep your pet on a leash for a few days after a disaster.Your pet could run off if it doesn't know its normal areas.
Step 5: As possible, make your pet calm and comfortable.
It is important to keep your pet calm while you are indoors.Try petting it, talking to it and giving it items that it normally uses, such as a blanket or bed.Your reassurances can help lower your pet's stress in this situation.
Step 6: If you evacuate, bring your pets with you.
It is not safe for your pets to be in that location.If you leave your pets behind, they may not survive a serious storm and you will not be allowed back into the evacuated area to get them later.Most emergency shelters do not allow pets, so you may not be able to go to a shelter.You can go to a friend or relative's home or a motel that accepts pets.
Step 7: You should be evacuated early.
It is better to be safe than sorry if you are worried about a storm.When a storm is not at its strongest, it will be easier to get pets loaded into carriers and into cars.If you wait for a mandatory evacuate, you may be told to leave your pets behind.
Step 8: If possible, put your pet in a carrier.
If you have a container to hold your pet, you should use it.Keeping your pet in a crate or carrier will allow you to more easily move it when you need to and it will minimize the risk of it running off due to fear.If you don't have a crate or carrier for your pet but they are used to using a leash, put one on them.In an emergency, having a way to control your pet's movements is important.
Step 9: Keep your pet calm.
You should spend some time comforting and calming your pet before, during, and after a storm.Your pet does not have a general sense of what is going on.It is important that the stress of this experience is not overwhelming.
Step 10: An emergency plan is needed.
An emergency evacuate route should be prepared before a storm.In addition to a route, your emergency evacuate plan should also include how you will transport your pets and what supplies to bring with you.If you have large animals, such as horses, they can't be brought into a typical shelter area.
Step 11: Emergency supplies should be gathered.
It's important to have emergency supplies in place if you live in a prone area.One week supply of food and fresh water is included in an emergency supply kit for your pets.
Step 12: Pets should be wearing identification tags.
It is important that your pets are always wearing id tags so that if they are lost during an emergency, they can be identified by anyone that finds them.If they are found, it is more likely that they will be returned to you.If you can, get your pet microchipped so that they can be identified in case they get lost.
Step 13: If you evacuate, bring pet supplies.
Bringing along some supplies for your pet is important when you are evacuated.Bringing your pet supplies with you in the aftermath of the storm is important for their survival.You should bring enough food and water for a week, a pet insurance policy, and photos of your pets if they get lost.
Step 14: Pet supplies can be put in the sheltered area.
Pet food and water should be included in the packing for your family.It should be placed in the basement, cellar, or other low-lying spot you are using for shelter.Make sure you have a way to keep your pet contained.If you have a cat or keep your dogs leashed during the storm, this may mean that you bring a pet crate into your shelter area.You will be able to keep control of your pet after the storm because of this.