In the event of a hurricane, if you are required to evacuate to a shelter, you will most likely not be able to bring your pet. Although Red Cross shelters and some others will allow services animals in with their owner, many shelters will refuse entrance. It is therefore best to be prepared ahead of time rather than stuck without a safe place to go with your pet during a hurricane. Make sure you have an emergency plan established that involves your pets being relocated to safety.
A man helps his pets feel safe during a hurricane.
According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, more and more communities are developing pet friendly shelter plans. The key is to do your research ahead of time and find out if any local shelters will admit your pet(s). If you cannot find any pet friendly shelters, the next step is to contact hotels or motels outside of the area to find out what their pet policies are and if they would waive a “no pet” policy in the event of an emergency. You may want to contact your veterinarian as well to ask them if they have any suggestions. While doing research, make certain to keep a list of pet friendly resources with phone numbers and addresses. If a hurricane comes your way and you need to evacuate, you will be thankful that you had the list prepared.
Next, it is important to have an emergency kit ready for your pet as well. As with all emergency kits, pet kits should be pre-assembled, left in one easy to access area close to the exit (preferable with your emergency kit as well) and ready to go. Pet kits should be kept in a water proof container that is sturdy and can easily be transported.
One pet kit should contain:
Go to Hurricane Safety for Pets to read the list and find out more!
