Are You and Your Animals Ready for Severe Weather and Wildfires?

A guide to keeping your pets safe during storms and wildfires

8.10.2024

Ensure your pet's safety during storms and wildfires. Learn how to create a plan, assemble a kit, and manage storm phobias.

Close up of a kitten cradled in the arms of someone in a red sweatshirt

Understanding the threats and creating a plan

Be prepared: Know the threats, make a plan

Tornadoes and cyclonic storms (hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones) present different dangers. Tornadoes strike quickly, while cyclonic storms bring high winds, rain, and potential flooding. Knowing your area's specific threats helps tailor your plan.

Aerial view of a hurricane cycling off the coast

Aerial view of flooding in a South Carolina neighborhood

Lightning striking the ground in a valley

Assemble a comprehensive disaster kit

Pack for your pet's protection: Building a disaster kit

Essentials:

Several days' worth of pet food and bottled water
Medications your pet needs
Familiar toys and bedding for comfort

Safety measures:

Sturdy leash or carrier for easy transport
Copies of medical records in a waterproof container
Extra collar with updated ID tags

Staying informed:

Battery-powered radio for news updates

Person in red FOUR PAWS jacket carrying two bags of food on their shoulder

Practice make perfect: rehearse your response

Practice your response: Drills for a calm pet

Rehearse your plan with your pet. Identify a safe shelter in your home (basement, interior room) and familiarise them with it before the storm or fire. Spend time together in the shelter to reduce anxiety.

Evacuation plans: When leaving is necessary

First, check with friends, relatives, and kennels who live in an area that is out of danger. Research pet-friendly shelters in advance, as not all shelters accept animals. Consider backup plans like boarding facilities or pet-friendly hotels outside the evacuation zone. Ensure your pet's ID tags are current with your contact information.

Twod dogs curled up on a blue and white dog bed in a living room

Two kittens standing inside a little house and one kitten laying in front

Brown dog sitting in a car, looking out the window

Helping pets cope with storm phobias

Calming your storm-anxious pet

Distraction is key: Engage your pet with toys or familiar commands during storms.

Create a safe space: Provide a quiet, sheltered area accessible during storms for comfort.

Seek professional help: For severe phobias, consult your veterinarian or animal behaviourist for a desensitisation plan before storm season.

Black dog laying on dog bed with concerned look on face

A gray and white cat laying on their back playing with a toy

Be prepared: Plan ahead for storm and wildfire season

Don't wait until disaster hits: Prepare now!

By preparing a kit and plan well before the storm or wildfire season, you ensure the safety of your entire family, including your furry companions. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping them safe and stress-free during severe weather.