Storms can be terrifying for people and pets, who often feel the stress and anxiety associated with loud noises, flashing lights, and changes in atmospheric pressure. Whether it’s a thunderstorm, hurricane, or tornado, ensuring your pet’s safety during severe weather requires proper preparation and understanding of their needs. Here are some tips for storm safety to help you protect your pets and keep them calm during storms. Ensure your furry friends stay safe and comfortable no matter the conditions outside.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like families have emergency kits for themselves, it’s equally important to prepare one for your pets. This kit should contain all the necessary supplies in case you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place during a storm. Essential items for your pet’s emergency kit should include food, water, medications, leashes, collars, carriers and crates, and comfort items. Pack at least a three-day supply of pet food and water. Don’t forget bowls or containers; if your pet is on a special diet, include their specific food. It’s essential to include any medications your pet regularly takes and instructions for administering them. If your pet has a medical condition, consider packing a copy of their medical records in a waterproof container. Packing leashes, collars, and harnesses are essential for safely moving your pet during an evacuation. Ensure your pet’s collar has an ID tag with up-to-date contact information. A crate or carrier is crucial if you need to transport your pet or confine them in a safe space. Bring your pet’s favorite toys, blankets, or beds to help reduce their anxiety during stressful situations. Additionally, if you have a dog, pack waste bags, and if you have a cat, bring a small portable litter box and litter. Having this kit ready to go ensures that you can grab everything you need quickly if the situation demands it.
Keep Pets Indoors During the Storm
When a storm is approaching, bringing your pets indoors is crucial. Outdoor pets are vulnerable to flying debris, flooding, lightning strikes, and other hazards that occur during severe weather. Cats, in particular, can become disoriented and hide in dangerous places if left outside during a storm. Designate a quiet, comfortable room where your pet can shelter during the storm. A windowless room, basement, or interior bathroom is ideal since these areas are safer from wind and debris. Make sure this space has familiar items, like your pet’s bed, favorite toys, and maybe a calming diffuser to help soothe their anxiety. Loud noises, wind, and rain can scare pets, leading them to seek escape routes. Secure all windows and doors to prevent your pet from running outside in a panic. If you have a fenced yard, check that the gate is securely latched in case you need to let your pet out briefly for a bathroom break; however, supervise them the entire time they’re outdoors.
Calm Your Pet’s Anxiety
Many pets, especially dogs, experience heightened anxiety during storms. The combination of thunder, flashing lightning, and changes in barometric pressure can make them fearful and agitated. Fortunately, there are ways to help reduce your pet’s storm-related stress. If your pet has a history of storm anxiety, consider desensitization training. This process involves exposing your pet to recordings of storm sounds at a low volume while providing positive reinforcement. Over time, this can help your pet become more accustomed to the noise of thunderstorms without experiencing as much fear. There are also various calming aids available for pets, including pheromone diffusers, calming collars, and anxiety wraps (such as the Thundershirt). These products can help soothe your pet during a storm by creating a sense of security and comfort. Stay close to your pet during the storm, offering physical comfort and a calm presence. Petting them gently or sitting with them in their safe space can provide reassurance that they are not alone.
Monitor Weather Alerts
Stay informed about approaching storms by monitoring weather alerts and updates. Many severe weather events, like hurricanes or tornadoes, are predictable hours or days in advance, giving you time to prepare. Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior. Some pets can sense changes in weather before the storm arrives. If your pet becomes unusually restless or anxious or starts seeking shelter, it could be a sign that a storm is coming. Use this early warning behavior as a cue to bring them indoors and secure your home.
Evacuation Planning with Pets
In the event of a severe storm where evacuation is necessary, it’s essential to have a plan in place for your pets. Research and identify pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or friends’ homes where you can bring your pets if you need to evacuate. Not all emergency shelters allow pets, so knowing your options is critical. Always transport your pet in a crate or carrier to prevent them from escaping in unfamiliar or chaotic environments. Make sure they wear their collar with ID tags, and ideally, have them microchipped for an extra identification layer. Keep your pet’s emergency kit in the car, along with blankets or seat covers, for added comfort during travel. Ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for longer trips, with enough food, water, and pet supplies.
Post-Storm Safety
Once the storm has passed, continue to monitor your pet and ensure their environment is safe before letting them back outside. When you get back home, check your property for any hazards, such as downed power lines, broken glass, or sharp debris that could injure your pet. Floodwaters, standing water, and contaminated areas should be avoided, as they can pose serious health risks. Your pet may still be stressed or disoriented even after the storm has ended. Keep them on a leash outdoors to prevent them from running off in fear or investigating unsafe areas.
Being Prepared is Key
Storm safety for pets is easier to manage when you are prepared. Storms can be unpredictable and dangerous, but you can keep your pets safe and secure with proper preparation and a calm approach. From preparing an emergency kit to creating a safe indoor space and addressing your pet’s anxiety, these precautions will help your furry friends weather the storm with minimal stress. Being proactive and informed can ensure your pets remain safe, comfortable, and well cared for during severe weather. Call Luv My Sitter for your professional pet care service needs.