Hurricane Pet Safety in Maurice, LA
During hurricane season, the weather can turn extreme and spawn dangerous tropical storms. In Louisiana, storms that make landfall can wreak havoc on cities, flooding streets and homes and knocking out power. It’s easy to take hurricane season for granted, since it happens every year. However, being adequately prepared for the worst (even if the worst never happens) puts you in a position to think and act more quickly in the event of a serious natural disaster. If such a major storm is imminent, you need to be as prepared as possible so that you and your pet can weather the storm in safety.
Check out our hurricane pet safety tips below!
Emergency Evacuation Checklist
If you need to evacuate your home, never leave your pet behind to fend for themselves. A place that is not safe for you will not be safe for your pet! More important, they’re family. We recommend having a hurricane pet safety plan well in advance so you’ll be ready to act quickly if the time comes.
Here’s what we recommend including in your evacuation plan:
Emergency Contact Numbers
Have emergency contact numbers in your phone for family members, friends, and even local animal shelters and hospitals.
Your Pet’s Health Records
Keep your pet’s updated health records in a waterproof container/bag, or saved in your phone.
A Photo of Your Pet
Carry a current photo of your pet with you in case they ever go missing.
A First Aid Kit
Pack up a first aid kit with non-stick gauze, hydrogen peroxide, triple antibiotic ointment, cotton swabs and tweezers.
Updated Vaccines and Parasite Prevention
Make sure your pet is current on all their vaccines and parasite preventives.
Up-to-Date Identification
Have up-to-date ID tags on your pet’s collar, and have your pet microchipped for extra insurance in case they get lost.
A Leash and/or Appropriate Pet Carrier
Keep your pet on a sturdy leash or in a hard-sided carrier (do not use an extendable leash), and be sure to bring an extra leash along just in case. Do NOT use a Flexi-leash.
Non-Perishables
For added security, bring along a week’s worth of non-perishable food.
Towels and Blankets
For extra comfort and warmth, bring along some clean towels and blankets.
Plenty of Water
Stock up on bottled water so you and your pet can stay properly hydrated.
Make Arrangements with a Family Member or Friend
Another important step is to plan ahead with a friend or family member who is living in a safe location. If you need to keep your pet with someone you trust, make sure the friend or family member is prepared to receive and care for your pet for at least a week.
What to do If You’re Staying Home
Remaining in your home may be the best choice if the weather is not as severe in your area. Nonetheless, be sure to:
Stock Up on Food
Make sure you have enough non-perishable food items to sustain your family and your pet for at least a week.
Have Batteries and Multiple Light Sources
In case of a power outage, make sure you have plenty of batteries and flashlights on hand.
Acquire Sandbags
Invest in sandbags around your property if flooding is a concern.
Keep a Phone Charger
Make sure you have a phone charger on hand and a list of emergency contact numbers in your phone.
Stay with Your Pet
Your pet may well become anxious or frightened during the storm. Stay by their side to keep them calm, comfortable, and assured.
Lock All Doors and Windows
Keep your home safe and secure by locking all doors and windows.
Take Your Pet Out on a Leash
If your pet needs to go outside to do their business, walk them out on a leash so you can keep an eye on them and prevent them from bolting.
Put Together a First Aid Kit
Purchase or put together a pet first aid kit, and keep it in an easily accessible place in your home.
Have an Evacuation Plan
If the weather situation gets dicey, you might have to evacuate your home regardless. Have an evacuation plan in place just in case that includes both your 2-legged and 4-legged family members. The plan should enable everyone to pack their things and move quickly to a safer location.
Being prepared for hurricane season involves many important steps to keep your family safe. Remember, your pet is not going to understand what’s going on, so it’s extremely important to be ready for anything. Having a plan in place will give you peace of mind and make a tense situation easier to handle.
If you have any questions about hurricane pet safety that are not answered above, let us know by calling (337) 385-2030.