After 24 years in south Florida and having pets, it's that time of year where we pray nothing happens and we never need it, but we prepare. So without further ado, you need a pet emergency disaster kit for your furkids, just like you need one for yourself. It's best not to wait until last minute and panic. Do it before you need it when things are calm. So here goes.
FOOD - Have at least a 3-day supply of food. If you pet eats canned food and you need an opener, get a hand opener and lids to cover the cans. You will need airtight containers or ziploc baggies.
WATER - Have at least 3 days supply for your pets.
MEDICINES - Have a good supply of the medicines they need and their medical records (or access to them via online portals. Have their rabies certificates printed out and a photo of them in case you get separated.
FIRST AID KIT
COLLAR OR HARNESS with ID Tags - And make sure they have tags - ID tags, rabies tags and a leash for each pet.
CRATE OR PET CARRIER - If you have to move, they will come in handy. If you choose to stay at home, your pet may feel more secure when the weather gets bad.
BABY WIPES - For cleanup they work great
PEE PADS - If your pets are trained to go on paper, this is a lifesaver in a hurricane. Have a stash of them and trash bags to bag them up.
BATTERY-OPERATED FAN
EXTRA BATTERIES
CELL PHONE CHARGED WITH BACKUP BATTERIES
FLASHLIGHTS
FILL YOUR CAR WITH GAS
HAVE CASH - Many credit and debit machines may not work after a storm
HAVE A PLAN - Decide whether you will stay at home or where you will go. To a friend perhaps, a shelter, hotel, or even your vet. Call ahead to find out which hotels will take pets.Same with shelters, call ahead to find out which shelters will take pets.
If you evacuate, take your furry friend with you. Please do not leave them to fend for themselves. If you are going to evacuate, go early before the rush.
If you decide to remain at home, designate a safe room. Bring all your hurricane supplies in there. This is usually an interior room with no windows - perhaps a closet or laundry room. We used a walk-in closet last time that worked well. I brought the dogs and all their supplies along with all of ours in there.
AFTER THE STORM - Don't allow your pets to roam around. There may be live electric wires down. Check if your area has been flooded and any wildlife that may have sought refuge during the storm. Use caution. Stay inside until you know it's safe to go out.
This article was written by Elyse Berman, PA of Best Connection Realty, Inc. She is both a dog owner and lover and a REALTOR®. Any questions, call/text (561) 716-7824 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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