2005 Hurricane Preparedness

Advice About Preparing for the 2005 Storm Season with Your Pets in Mind

Here in Florida, we're entering into hurricane season. And, while we hope 2005 isn’t anything like last year, it is always a good idea to be prepared. While most of us know how to prepare and to keep our homes and families safe, pet owners face a range of issues.

First, as you may know, most shelters do not allow you to bring your pets or animals. We can recommend a list of shelters that sometimes allow animals and also a list of hotels and motels in the area (Alachua County & Florida) that allow pets. However, please be sure to call ahead just to be sure as these lists may not be up to date.

If you think you will be seeking shelter outside your home, and have pets, now is the time to prepare. Boarding your pets means that your pets must be up to date on all of their vaccinations.  Don't wait until the last minute to take care of this matter. Make sure your animal's shots are up to date and you have the proper paperwork stored in a waterproof bag. Many kennels also require that your animal be parasite free. So, it's always a good idea to keep your pet flea and tick free by using many of the products available on the market.

Also, if it's time to spade or neuter your pet and you've been putting it off, now is a good time. Remember, if you must board your pet in an emergency, your pet will be around other animals. In addition, you may not have time—at the last minute--to make that appointment with your vet for any needed vaccinations or surgical procedures. If you are forced to leave your pet at home during a storm, keep in mind that if he or she gets lose, for whatever reason, he or she may be at risk of being injured or getting pregnant.

Now is the time to be sure your pet has the proper identification, including a current rabies tag. If your pet does not have a current tag and gets lose during this time, he or she may be frightened and could be more likely to bite--without a rabies tag things could get really complicated for everyone involved! 

Make sure all your pet(s) are collared with up-to-date identification as well. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, your telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. The ASPCA recommends micro-chipping your pet for the most permanent identification. (A microchip is implanted in the animal's shoulder area, and can be read by scanner at most local animal shelters.)

If you must leave your pet at home when you evacuate, make sure he or she has ample amounts of food and water. Use a water bowl (preferably with a flat, heavy bottom) that isn't likely to turn over. Better yet, provide water with a reservoir feeder that allows for storage and delivery of clean water over time.  Remember to provide enough water for all your pets. Leave ample amounts of dry food rather than canned food, as left over time in the heat, wet food could attract bugs or spoil quickly.

Windows and doors may not be a good place for animals to hang out during a storm.  Move your pet's cushions or beds to a safe inner room without windows, such as a bathroom, or preferably a storm safe room in your home. You can always leave newspaper on the floor to provide a place for them to relieve themselves if necessary.

If your pet is normally anxious or overly stressed during regular thunderstorms or during your absence, see your vet in advance to see about anxiety medications or natural products that may help ease your pet's anxiety during the storm and during your absence. The ASPCA site has a lot of information on their site about emergency preparedness.

The best bet is to have a boarding facility or kennel in mind.  Be sure to book your pet's space well in advance!!  During times of evacuation, many boarding facilities fill up quickly!! 

Archer Road Pet Resort is an official emergency evacuation building.  Last year, we filled up quickly, and we safely rode out the storms with our client's animals.

So, if you suspect that you will need to evacuate or take the rest of your family to a shelter, please be sure to contact us as soon as possible--we hate to have to turn anyone away but we can only hold so many animals! 

Also, make sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date and that he or she is parasite free. Keep in mind that during the storm, we may not be able to bathe or groom your pet as our concerns will be on the safety and security of our building, our families, and our other guests!  With this in mind, remember that we will be happy to make room for your pet and provide them with the attention they need during times of crisis. 

Take care and have a safe summer!

MariLu, Michael & the ARPR Staff