As we make plans to prepare for tropical storms and hurricanes, it’s imperative to have a plan set in place not only for us and our families safety, but also for our pets. After all, they are family too! Officially, hurricane season starts June 1st and ends November 30th; however, the experts are already predicting an early and very active hurricane season.
Waiting until a storm hits to make arrangements is not a valid option because you will ultimately be overwhelmed with home preparations, getting gas in your car, finding a hotel or shelter, and the list goes on and on. Being proactive now is best. Start by making a list of what your pet will need on a daily and weekly basis, and then pack a bag for them now, and store it away in case you need to grab it and go in a hurry. Pack the bag with enough supplies to last at least 2-weeks.
Hurricane Preparedness Pet Check List
1. List of shelters and hotels that accept pets
2. Animal first aid kit
3. Face mask for you and your human family for shelters and hotels
4. Several gallons of water
5. Two weeks supply of pet food
6. Extra medication (flea and heartworm prevention, prescription medications)
7. ID tags
8. Leash/lead/harness
9. Disposable litter box or training pads
10. Cat litter
11. Eating & drinking bowls
12. Travel bag or crate
13. Recent pictures of your pet (in case they get lost)
14. Disposable clean-up bags
15. Chew toys & treats
16. Blankets
17. Medical Records in a waterproof bag or on your device or USB
18. Antianxiety/calming medications or treats
19. Make certain your pet’s vaccinations are up to
date and that you have proof to show the shelter
Never abandon or leave your pet behind. Designate a caregiver or two that you can rely on if you are out of town during a storm, or you cannot take your pet with you for some reason.
Pets get nervous too, and they can sense their human parent’s anxiety. Just as anxiety is unhealthy for people, pets can suffer physical impairments, aggression, depression, heart attacks, and strokes from apprehension.
During this upcoming storm season, calming supplements can ease your pet’s anxiety. If a storm is approaching, giving your pet the recommended dosage of these all-natural anti-anxiety medications can help your pet feel more at ease during a storm.
Oasis Animal Hospital also offers stronger anti-anxiety medications by prescription, depending on the severity of your pet’s disorder. It’s important to speak to your veterinarian about these medications before hurricane season gets into full swing.
Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital in Naples offers the most up to date and progressive veterinary services for your pets. Ranging from laser surgery, ultrasound, dental X-rays, radiology, full pharmacy, and in house diagnostics, Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital provides your pets with the necessary options for treatment.
Contact Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital to schedule vaccinations, pick up paperwork, and extra medications for your pets today!
ANIMAL OASIS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
239-431-9667
www.aovethospital.com