A Complete Storm Preparedness Guide for Pet Owners

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Your pets are cherished family members, and protecting them from extreme weather can often feel daunting. We're here to make that job easier with our comprehensive guide, ensuring not just your readiness for the storm but also your pet's comfort and safety before, during, and after the storm.

1. Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is your first line of defense in stormy weather, and your pets need one just as critically as you do. Regularly restock pet food and water, aiming to have at least a five-day supply. Keep a bag of litter handy for indoor restroom needs. Up-to-date copies of your pet's medical records and a list of necessary medications are also important to include. Don't forget to add a comfortable leash, a familiar blanket – even a love-worn toy or two — to provide comfort in their cozy crate.

2. Create a Safe Space

Storms bring a lot of unsettling and scary noises that can distress your pets, making creating a safe, calm space essential. Designate a room in your house away from windows, preferably in the interior, as their storm-soothing sanctuary. Familiar items like their favorite bed, toys, or soft music can help suppress their anxiety.

3. Get Them ID’d

Proactive identification measures can be invaluable in case your pet goes missing during a storm. In addition to an ID tag with your current contact information on their collar, we recommend considering microchipping your pet. Most pet shelters and veterinary clinics can scan lost pets for microchips, increasing the odds of a reunion if you get separated.

4. Keep an Eye on the Forecast

Weather alerts are an indispensable tool for pet owners. Staying updated with the local forecast can help you anticipate severe weather conditions and give you time to move your pets to a safe location indoors. Mobile weather apps and NOAA Weather Radios offer real-time alerts.

5. Plan an Evacuation Strategy

Knowing where you can take your pets if you need to evacuate can save critical time during a storm. Research pet-friendly shelters and hotels in and around your area. Alternatively, you could also set up an arrangement with out-of-town friends or relatives willing to temporarily house your pets during weather emergencies.

6. Practice Makes Perfect

Stress-free evacuation starts with a well-practiced plan. Running regular drills, including your pets, familiarizes them with the process and eases anxiety during a real event. Remember, even pets can sense stress. If they're used to drills, they're more likely to remain calm during an actual evacuation.

As storm preparedness experts at SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis, we acknowledge that protecting your pets during a storm requires multifaceted preparedness. You're not just ensuring their safety; you're preserving their sense of security and peace. And remember, if your home faces any storm damage, our dedicated team is just a call away, ready to make it "Like it never even happened." Stay safe, alert, and pet-ready with SERVPRO®.