How to prepare your pets for a hurricane

Updated 23/02/2024

If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you’ll know that safeguarding your pets from such natural disasters is a responsibility that cannot be taken lightly, and as devoted pet owners, it falls upon you to ensure their safety and well-being is maintained every step of the way. From preparing an evacuation plan to knowing what to do in the aftermath, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and strategies to help keep your pets safe before, during, and after the storm. So without further ado, let’s take a look at how to prepare your pets for a hurricane. 

How to prepare for a hurricane with pets

It’s important to start preparing for hurricanes well in advance, so here are a few trusted tips to help you and your pet pals face the stormy season.

Hurricane prep for pets

• Cats and dogs should be microchipped so they can be easily traced if you get separated. Make sure your contact details are all up to date, including your name, phone number, and address. 
• Pets should wear a collar with an identification tag clearly displaying contact information and any medical conditions they may have. 
• Keep pets up-to-date with vaccinations and preventative care such as flea and worming treatments, as weather conditions and temporary shelter stays could mean your pet is exposed to diseases and illnesses. 
• Create a safe, comfortable haven for you and your pets to ride out the storm, ideally in an interior room with no windows. Give your pets time to get accustomed to the room well in advance to minimize stress in the event of a hurricane.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecasts and hurricane warnings throughout the season. Sign up for alerts and notifications to stay up-to-date with the latest developments, and get a battery-powered radio to receive emergency information in case of power outages.
• Think about where you will go in case you need to evacuate. Pets should not be left at home in the event of a hurricane, so write a list of pet friendly shelters and accommodations in the area.  
• Place a sticker on your door alerting hurricane animal rescue services that there are pets inside your home. 

Hurricane kit for pets

As well as gathering your own essential supplies, prepare the following emergency kit for your pet. 

• A pet first aid kit
• Pee pads/poop bags/litter box/cat litter
• Paper towels and cleaning supplies
• Your pet's medication
• A paper copy of your pet's medical records
• Contact information for the vet 
• Treats
• Familiar toys
• Leash and/or harness 
• Collar with ID tags
• A travel bag or crate 
• Enough food and fresh, bottled water for at least three days 
• Food and water bowls 
• A blanket to keep your pet warm at night if needed 
• Reflective jacket or strips to help your dog be easily seen in a rescue mission or evacuation attempt

Remember, hurricane prep for dogs, cats, and other pets entails ensuring you have enough supplies for a minimum of three days (but ideally longer). The best food to get for hurricane prep is usually sealed in a tin, but even so, it’s important to keep food and water supplies in an airtight container to prevent bacterial contamination. 

What to do with pets during a hurricane

If you’re staying at home during the storm, find a safe place for you and your pets to shelter - this will usually be an interior room with no windows. Keep doors securely closed in case pets make a run for it and ensure you have access to everything you need. Remember, if you are evacuated due to a hurricane, you'll need to take your pets with you. 

Keeping pets calm

As pets are sensitive to our emotions and anxiety, keep your dog calm by remaining as relaxed as possible during the storm. Playing with your pets and using distractions such as music can help reduce anxiety. 

Toilet and sanitation

If it’s too dangerous for you to go outside, it’s too dangerous for your pets. But what do you do about your dog pooping in a hurricane? Prepare yourself for temporary toilet situations with pee pads, plastic bags, and cleaning supplies, and if you have the space, a small paddling pool can be filled with turf for cats and dogs to go potty. Create a designated toilet area and use a command such as go toilet to help your dog understand it's okay to relieve themselves in this area. Keep children away from the toileting area and be sure to clean up after your pets regularly. 

What to do after the storm

It’s crucial to wait until the storm has passed completely before going outside. Keep pets secured inside and check for hazards like contaminated water and sharp debris before allowing them out. Your pet may need a safe, quiet place to chill out in the aftermath of a hurricane. 

How do hurricanes affect animals? 

It’s important to recognize that it takes time for everyone to adjust after a natural disaster, including your pets. Pets can become anxious and stressed due to changes in familiar surroundings, scents, and routines. 

Check your pets for any signs of injury and seek medical assistance immediately if you have any concerns. Pay special attention to the following:

• Wounds 
• Pain, limping, or swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge
• Vomiting or diarrhea 
• Changes in behavior
• Changes in energy levels
• Changes in appetite

We hope this guide to hurricane preparedness for pets has been useful to those of you affected by natural disasters like these. As you will know, it's important to stay safe whether you live in a hurricane-prone area or you’re just visiting for a house sit. Being well-informed about local emergency procedures, having a pet-specific plan of action, and staying updated on weather forecasts can help ensure the well-being of both you and your pets during hurricane season.

Meet our veterinary expert, Corinne

This article has been checked by veterinarian Corinne Wigfall BVMBVS(Hons) BVMedSci(Hons). Corinne is originally from Wales and moved to New Zealand after graduating university. She started her career with a university based equine internship and moved onto mixed and small animal practice. Currently she splits her time between online tele triage and working in an after hours vet clinic.