Hurricane season starts June 1, so if you live on the Alabama Gulf Coast, ensure your family is prepared. Pets have their own unique needs, so include them in emergency planning. Veterinarians recommend taking the following actions to protect furry friends during hurricane season.

How to Keep Pets Safe During Hurricane Season

1. Stay Informed & Do Your Research

The state of Alabama has many public resources available for disaster preparation. Use these to help determine what your family should do before, during, and after a hurricane. Stay up to date on weather warnings and consider signing up for instant notifications on your mobile device.

2. Formulate an Evacuation Plan

Every family should have emergency plans for the most common natural and man-made disasters in their area. Designate a family meeting spot, know alternate routes away from the coast, and find a local public facility that allows pets to accompany families sheltering from storms. Never leave pets behind if you can help it; when conditions aren’t safe for your family, they aren’t safe for your pet.

3. Pack an Emergency Kit

Have provisions ready for your family and pet in case a hurricane leaves you temporarily stranded. Alongside the standard disaster supplies kit, pack a special bag for your pet. Pets will need multiple days’ worth of food, clean water, bedding, plastic bags, an extra collar and leashes, medicine and health records from the veterinarian, emergency contact information, litter and disposable litter boxes for cats, and toys for comfort.

4. Make Sure Your Pet Is Identifiable

If you and your pet are separated, identification will significantly increase the chances of reuniting. Pets should always wear a collar with tags containing their name and your contact information. Have them microchipped by a veterinarian so they’ll be linked to a database accessible by most shelters, animal control services, and animal clinics.

5. Find a Pet Boarding Facility

Determine a safe place for your pet to stay in case of an evacuation. If family members and friends can’t provide housing for a pet, check with trusted animal shelters and veterinarians ahead of time to see if they provide pet boarding during disasters.

If you need help planning for a pet during emergencies, the knowledgeable veterinarians and staff at Animal Medical Center of Foley, AL, are happy to assist. This animal clinic will work to ensure your furry friend stays in top shape, and they take pride in providing the best personalized pet care and treatments on the Alabama Gulf Coast. They offer comprehensive veterinary services, including pet boarding, microchipping, and preventative care. Call (251) 955-5900 today to book an appointment. Visit their website to fill out a boarding request form.