When a hurricane threatens our area, your pet’s safety should be part of your family’s emergency plan. Preparing in advance can help ensure your pets are protected and reduce their stress during evacuation or shelter-in-place situations. Here’s a species-specific guide to hurricane preparedness for dogs, cats, and exotic pets.
Hurricane Preparedness for Dogs
Ensure your dog has a hurricane-ready emergency kit that includes:
Essentials:
- At least 7 days of food and bottled water
- Leash, harness, and sturdy collar with ID tags
- Crate or carrier large enough for your dog to stand and turn around
- Medications (2-week supply) and prescriptions:
- Heartworm, flea, and tick preventives
- Calming aids if needed
- Vaccination records, printed and digital (especially rabies)
- Waste bags and cleaning supplies
- Favorite toy or blanket to reduce anxiety
- Towel for drying or paw-cleaning
- Muzzle (required by some shelters, even for friendly dogs)
- Photo of you with your dog and updated microchip information
Optional Extras (If Space Allows):
- Kiddie pool with sod/grass for an indoor potty solution
- White noise machine to mask storm sounds
- Extra slip leash or heavy-duty lead
- Example Slip Lead on Amazon
- Additional calming tools or injury support equipment
Hurricane Preparedness for Cats
Cats can become especially anxious during storms. Prepare your feline companion with the following:
Essentials:
- 7+ days of food and water
- Manual can opener and spoon for canned food
- Litter box, litter, and scoop
- Hard-sided carrier with towel or blanket
- Medications (2-week supply) and prescriptions
- Vaccination records, especially rabies and FVRCP
- Collar with ID tag
- Towel for drying or paw-cleaning
- Comfort items like toys or scratch pads
- Waste/trash bags for used litter
- Photo of your cat and microchip details
Optional Extras:
- Feliway spray or diffuser for calming
- Extra pillowcase or towel for safe handling
- Treats or food puzzles for stimulation
Hurricane Preparedness for Exotic Pets
Each exotic species has unique needs. Prepare species-specific supplies in advance.
Essentials:
- Secure travel carrier or habitat
- 14-day food supply, plus water bottles or bowls
- Cleaning supplies (paper towels, disinfectant)
- Towels or cage covers to reduce visual stress
- Medications and your exotic vet’s contact info
- Familiar enrichment items like toys or hides
Additional Recommendations by Species:
Birds:
- Lightweight cage with a perch
- Mist bottle for cooling
- Fruits/veggies as water sources
Reptiles/Amphibians:
- Battery-powered heating pad or hot packs
- Temperature/humidity monitors
- Supplements like Calci-dust
- Safe handling containers
Small Mammals (Rabbits, Ferrets, Rodents):
- Familiar bedding and chew toys
- Hidey-huts for comfort
- Leash/harness if trained
General Tips & Resources
- Pet First Aid Kit: Be sure to include one in your hurricane kit
Recommended Pet First Aid Kit on Amazon - Window Stickers: Post emergency alert decals noting animals inside
Find them here - Pet-Friendly Hotels: Visit petswelcome.com for searchable listings
- Evacuation Timing Matters: Leaving early gives you and your pet the best chance of accessing safe shelter
📍 Information on Shelters (Including Pet-Friendly) Found Here
Your pet is family—make sure they’re prepared. For more hurricane preparedness tips or to ask about evacuation planning, contact our hospital. We’re here to help keep your entire pack safe.