Hurricane Season 2022 Begins Today

Natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods are out of our control.  However, planning for a disaster is something we can all do. Just like other members of your household, emergency planning for your pets requires supplies and advance preparation. The supplies you gather should be able to provide for your pet for at least five days.

Are you ready for hurricane season?

• Does your pet have up-to-date vaccines and do you have copies of your pet’s medical records?  All boarding facilities and veterinarian offices will require proof of immunization before accepting pets. With vet offices being booked several weeks out, make your appointment today.
• Are your pet’s ID tags up-to-date? If your contact information or address have changed be sure to get your pet new ID tags.
• Does your pet have a microchip? This is a permanent form of identification that can be your pet’s round-trip ticket home in the event they get lost. Need a microchip? Schedule an appointment at our Community Clinic.
• Compile a list of places to go. Research pet-friendly hotels, ask friends and family who live outside of the strike zone if you and your pets can evacuate there, and contact pet boarding facilities that are also outside of the path of the hurricane. It is always suggested to have multiple options incase one falls through.

Evacuation Checklist

• Food and water. Keep food in an airtight, waterproof container. Water for pets should be in addition to the water you need for yourself and family.
• Medicine and medical records. Keep an extra supply of medicine your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container. All boarding facilities and veterinarian offices require proof of immunization before accepting animals.
• Collar with ID tag; harness or leash. Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times.
• Documents. Place copies of your pet’s microchip information, registration, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clear plastic bag or waterproof container.
• Crate or other pet carrier. Carriers should be large enough for your pet to stand up, completely turn around and lie down. Mark your name, address, phone number and an alternate contact on the carrier.
• Sanitation. Include pet litter, newspapers, towels, plastic trash bags and cleaners in your evacuation bag so you can pick up after your pet.