Disaster & Hurricane Preparedness
Being prepared and having a plan in the event of a hurricane can save your pet’s lives. With hurricane season at its peak in Texas, we wanted to lend some important tips in the event of a bad storm or another disaster.
- If you have to evacuate your home during a disaster, the best way to protect your pets is to evacuate them too. If it’s not safe for you to stay behind then it’s not safe to leave pets behind either.
- Know which hotels or motels are along your evacuation route that will allow your pets to stay. Call ahead for reservations if you know you may need to evacuate. You may even want to ask if no pet policies can be waived in the event of an emergency.
- Know which friends, relatives, boarding facilities, or veterinarians can care for your animals in the event of an emergency.
- Include your pets in evacuation drills so that they become used to entering and travelling in their carriers or the car calmly.
- Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are current, in case they have to be boarded, and that all of your pets are wearing collars that are securely fastened with up-to-date identification. Also consider having your pet microchipped by your veterinarian in the event they go missing during an evacuation.
- It is a good idea to create an evacuation kit for your pets that includes :
- A sturdy leash/harnesses and/or carriers to transport your pet(s) safely and ensure that they can’t escape.
- Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan, trash bags, and a manual can opener if your pet(s) eats canned food.
- Extra medications and copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container.
- Current photos of your pet(s) in case they get lost. Since many pets look alike, this will help to eliminate mistaken identity and confusion.
- Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pet(s).
- Your pet(s) may appreciate familiar items, such as toys, beds, blankets if you are able to easily transport them.
Stay safe and please don’t hesitate to let us know if there’s any way we can serve you and your pets during this time.
Sincerely,
Critter Care Crew
