Natural disasters, like hurricanes and tornadoes, can strike at any time that's why it's critical to be prepared. These 8 simple, yet important steps will help you in the event of an emergency or if you need to evacuate your home with your cat or dog.
Ensure your pet can be identified by either a microchip or collar ID tag, with updated contact information. - Prepare an emergency box of supplies that is readily available. Emergency kits should include:
- Good, current photo ID of your cat or dog
- First aid supplies & guide book
- 3-day supply of cat or dog food in a waterproof container (be sure to replace food supply to assure it's fresh)
- Bottled water
- 2 bowls for pet food and water
- Safety harness and/or leash
- Waste clean-up supplies
- Medications and medical records (vaccination records)
- Contact list / information of veterinarian and pet care organizations
- Contact information for you (name, phone, address)
- Keep your emergency kit in an area that is easy to access in an emergency, such as a closet by the front door.
- Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a cat or dog in the house. Include your veterinarian's contact information, as well as your own.
- If you need to evacuate, consider taking a pet carrier or crate for transporting your pet and keeping them safe.
- Carry a recent picture of your cat or dog with you in case you are separated.
- Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house because pets may hide if they are scared. Finding them quickly will help you evacuate faster.
- Identify a location that is pet friendly if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people ,may not be able to shelter cats or dogs. It's a good idea to research hotels/motels with pet friendly policies, or ask relatives or friends if you and/or your cat or dog can stay with them
We care about the stress disaster survivors feel when their pets are missing, or when they are struggling to care for them while food and shelter are scarce. To help alleviate some of that stress, Hill's has established a National Disaster Relief Network to help during emergencies. This Disaster Relief Network includes nearly 100 shelters across the U.S. to distribute pet food supplies to those who need it most.
Tasty Tips
While natural disasters can strike at any time, according to the Weather Channel, there are official times that they can occur:
| Hurricane | Tornado | Wild Fires (ie California) |
|---|---|---|
| Hurricanes can form from early May to December in the Caribbean Sea or the Gulf of Mexico. Atlantic hurricane official season is June 1st - November 30th. Eastern North Pacific hurricane official season is May 15th - November 30th. | Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year and anywhere in the world In the SE states, peak tornado season is February – April Northern Plains peak season is June – August South – late winter - early spring Plains, Midwest & Ohio Valley – early spring - summer | While there is no official "Fire Season", it can be considered all year long, especially for California. however the key months are June - August |
By implementing these simple steps, you will be prepared should you and your pets need to react to a disaster.
Related products
Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition (USA Study)
Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe cat food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Adult Hairball Control Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Natural fiber to help comfortably reduce hairballs
Related articles
Keeping Pets Calm During Thunderstorms
Is your dog scared of thunder? Does your kitty dart under the bed at the first rumble? Learn a few tips for keeping your pets calm during the storm.
How to Reduce Your Pet's Carbon Paw Print
Headed outside? How you and your pets engage with nature can affect the environment, so here are some quick tips for reducing your pet's carbon paw print.
Finding a Pet Sitter: Tips for Finding One You Can Trust
Knowing how to find a pet sitter who's right for you and your pet can be hard. Follow our tips to help you search for, evaluate and choose a great sitter.
Moving With a Pet: A How-To Guide
Discover helpful tips for moving with your pet including safety recommendations to keep in mind on moving day & pet behavior to watch for at your new home.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.