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How To Protect Your Pets During A Hurricane

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It’s that time of year again when the National Hurricane Center puts out the list of names for possible storms to come. This brought up a good question, what about our pets. What do we do with our pets in the event of a natural disaster? I remember when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans and many pets were not able to evacuate with their families, it became very difficult to reunite these families without a microchip for identification.

How To Protect Your Pets During A Hurricane

The best thing we can do is start early and prepare ahead of time. There are numerous things you can do now that will keep you and your pets’ safe in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster.

  1. Make sure your pets have proper and up to date identification. A collar with your current address and phone number on it will help immensely but in the case of Katrina many pets once found had misplaced their collars and ID tags. This is where a microchip can be ideal. A microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is placed under the skin between the shoulder blades. It is not a GPS device and as such will not tell you where your pet is but when scanned it will hold the number of the microchip company to be called and an identification number. When called this number will link to a registered account that will have all of your contact information to help get your pet returned home. Also this account can have any pertinent medical information about your pet so we can make sure that until you’re able to be reacquainted we can give them any medical care if necessary. This is great for pets with diseases such as diabetes, anxiety, or arthritis where timely treatment is important.
    University Animal Clinic partners with Honor Animal Rescue and Nate’s to provide low-cost microchips once a month.
  2. Prepare an emergency kit ahead of time. This kit should include but not be limited to: food and water for each pet for at least 5 days, any medication your pets require and vaccine history, any leashes and harnesses, appropriate sized carriers/kennels for both dogs and cats, litter box/scoop/ and garbage bags, a current photo of your pet and description of any pertinent markings, and written instructions about feeding and medication schedule as well as any behavioral issues to be aware of. Other helpful items to include are paper towels, blankets, trash bags, grooming items, and cleaning items such as bleach.
  3. Prepare an evacuation plan. Know ahead of time where you will likely evacuate to and make plans that would account for your pets as well. Another thing learned from hurricane Katrina was that many displaced people were not able to take their pets with them. Call your local office of emergency management to see if you will able to evacuate with your pet and if they will be welcome at local shelters. Plan ahead by calling hotels outside your area and seeing if they accept pets and of what size.

After the natural disaster when you get home be mindful of your pets as things may have changed. Do not allow pets to roam off leash as there could be sharp objects about they could injure themselves on or food or other objects they may attempt to eat. While assessing damage keep pets on a leash and cats in carries, its very easy for a pet to become lost or escape. Watch for signs of anxiety as there have been a lot of changes in their environment and everyday routine. These signs could include hypersalivation, hiding, vocalization, and even aggression.

Remember that disaster preparedness plans are not only for the 2 legged members of your family but for the 4 legged furry ones as well. If you still have questions reach out to your veterinarian or local humane society as they may be able to help. Being prepared ahead of time will not only take a lot of stress away from an already stressful situation but can be lifesavers for your family and pets.

What Our Clients Have To Say

Brought my baby ferret here, Dr. Sam was awesome about letting me ask all of my questions and giving me direct answers (really bothers me when we see a vet for our cats and can’t get clear answers).

Katie Martin

The staff and doctors were extremely helpful and kind. I feel confident in their ability to diagnose and treat my puppies. I’m so thankful they were referred to me by a friend.

Patty Sisson

Most caring and helpful Vet ever. The staff are amazing and are so wonderful with all pets. They take amazing care of my two fur babies. I wouldn’t trust my two pups with anyone else. You can really tell how much the love animals.

Jean Hamilton

By far the best vet I have ever been to! We just moved to the area and by some horrible chance had two pet emergencies in our first month with my pets, Moose and Thor. Not only did they get us in same day..

Joe R

Incredibly grateful to the staff of University Animal Clinic. We have been a customer for over 20 years. They were able to take care of our dog Duke today for an unscheduled appointment for UTI. Couldn’t imagine going to anybody else.

Ellen Wolak

Very welcoming right from the moment I made the first appointment. Due to the COVID virus, I could not go in with my cat to see the vet but she called me and we had a great conversation. They took some blood and a few days later the vet called me with the results.

Cara Pabis

Awesome reptile vet! I thought there was a problem with my bearded dragon so I made an app to bring him in. Dr. Sara was knowledgeable, professional, and down to earth. UAC is clean and doesn’t smell like urine whatsoever. I love coming here and will continue to bring my pets here.

Tresha Keener

This was Tanks first visit and will be his only vet from now on!!! They were helpful, informative and friendly!! Thanks to everyone who works there!!! Tank had a great experience!

Dean Gibson

Yesterday was our first visit to this clinic. I brought my 6 year old Goffin Cockatoo Chance in for a wellness check and nail trim and also to discuss her ongoing feather plucking issues. Dr. Leigh Samanowitz was Amazing as were all the staff.

Margie Bauer

We’ve always had a great experience at University Animal Clinic. The doctors and team are all very knowledgeable and friendly. They get back to you in a timely manner and work with you when it comes to scheduling appointments.

Natalie Platt
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