Hurricane Prep for Dogs: Keeping Safe in Southwest Florida (2024)

Emergency Kit

Creating an emergency kit for your dog is a proactive measure that can make a significant difference in times of need. Include items like food, water, medications, and comfort items in your pet’s kit. Here are a few essential items to consider including:

• Pet Crate or Carrier: You will need a sturdy, safe carrier or crate that allows your dog to stand, turn around and lie down
• Food: Pack at least a three-day supply of your dog’s regular food in a waterproof container.
• Water: Store enough water to keep your dog hydrated for several days.
• Medications: Ensure you have a supply of any necessary medications your pet requires.
• Comfort Items: Include familiar toys, bedding, and anything else that can provide comfort during stressful times.
• First Aid Kit: Having a first aid kit specifically tailored to your pet’s needs is paramount. Include items like cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape, scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, and isopropyl alcohol.

FEMA has a checklist here to download or print.

Evacuation Research

Researching pet-friendly evacuation shelters in advance can save valuable time and reduce stress when evacuation becomes necessary.

• Lee County:
  • Evacuation zones: https://www.leegov.com/publicsafety/emergencymanagement/knowyourzone
  • Pet-friendly shelters: https://www.leegov.com/publicsafety/emergencymanagement/shelters/petshelter
  • Lee County Animal Services: https://www.leegov.com/animalservices
• Collier County:
  • Evacuation zones: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/InformationLookup/index.html?appid=2299a87f637b422c95661c889ce6bdd6
  • Pet-friendly shelters: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/government/county-manager-operations/divisions/emergency-management/shelter-info
  • Collier County Domestic Animal Services: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/government/public-services/divisions/domestic-animal-services
• Charlotte County:
  • Evacuation zones: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/public-safety/emergency-management/know-your-zone.stml
  • Pet-friendly shelters: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/public-safety/emergency-management/shelter-listing.stml
  • Charlotte County Animal Services: https://www.awlshelter.org/

Florida also offers Special Needs Shelters which require advanced registration. If you need help with basic daily tasks or have electronic medical devices, pre-register at anytime of year for a Special Needs Shelter at this website.

By taking these proactive steps and being prepared in advance, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your beloved canine companion during inclement weather conditions. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your dog safe and secure.

Practice Makes Perfect

Before a storm hits, it’s crucial for dog owners in Southwest Florida to prepare their furry companions for potential emergencies. Two key aspects to focus on are desensitizing your dogs to storm noises and practicing evacuations.

The saying “Practice Makes Perfect” couldn’t be more true when it comes to preparing your dog for the frightening sounds of a storm. Desensitizing your dog to these daunting noises involves a carefully planned approach, beginning with playing recordings of storms at a low volume. This method allows your pet to become accustomed to the sounds in a controlled, safe environment. Gradually, as your dog shows signs of less anxiety and fear, you can increase the volume of the recordings. The goal is to mimic the unpredictable nature of real storms, all the while ensuring your dog learns that these sounds are not a threat. This process requires patience and consistency, but it’s an effective way to help your dog cope with their fears.

In addition to acclimating your dog to the sounds of storms, practicing evacuation drills is equally important. These drills should mimic real-life scenarios where you might need to quickly leave your home with your pet. Start by familiarizing your dog with their carrier, making it a positive space with treats and toys. Then, simulate evacuation drills by carrying them in their carrier, practicing basic commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘come’ in the process. These drills not only prepare your dog for a real emergency but also strengthen the bond between you through trust and understanding. It’s about creating a sense of security and readiness, ensuring both you and your pet are prepared for any situation.

What if You Decide to Stay

When deciding not to evacuate during a hurricane, it’s crucial for dog owners to prepare meticulously to ensure both their and their pets’ safety. Here are three tips to consider:

1. Create a Safe Space Inside Your Home: Choose a room without windows or with the least exterior exposure as a safe haven during the storm. This space should be familiar to your pet, to keep them as calm as possible. Stock it with your dog’s bed, toys, and other comfort items. Make sure this area is also prepared with necessities such as food, water, and any medications your dog needs. Keeping the environment calm and comfortable is key to reducing stress for your pet.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit: In addition to your human emergency kit, prepare one for your dog. This should include at least a week’s supply of food and fresh water, medications, veterinary records, a first-aid kit, and any special care instructions. Don’t forget about sanitation—have a plan for your dog’s waste, such as potty pads or bags, especially if going outside might not be safe for periods of time. Include a leash and collar with ID tags, in case you need to move to a different part of your home quickly.
3. Maintain a Routine: Dogs are creatures of habit and can become stressed due to changes in their environment or routine. As much as possible, try to stick to regular feeding, walks (if safe), and playtimes. This can help keep your dog calm. However, be mindful of the dangers of going outside during severe weather conditions and adjust accordingly. If you must alter your routine, try to do so gradually to help your pet adjust with less anxiety.

Remember, each hurricane and home situation is unique, so it’s important to consider your specific circumstances, including the layout of your home, the nature of the storm, and your dog’s temperament and health needs. Always monitor local advisories and consider your pet in all emergency planning decisions. Being prepared can significantly reduce the stress on both you and your pet during such challenging times. And remember, safety should always be the top priority; if evacuation becomes necessary or is advised by local authorities, have a plan in place for how to do so safely with your pet. Our post with more detail about Storm Safety Plans and Sheltering in Place is linked here.

Update Contact Info

One essential step in storm preparedness is to update your pet’s microchip information and ensure that any pet alert stickers on your house are current. By keeping this information up-to-date, you increase the chances of being reunited with your pet in case of separation during a storm.