Here in the Southeast, summer also signifies the arrival of hurricane season. With the increase in average temperatures, hurricanes are becoming more powerful and occurring more frequently. One positive aspect of hurricanes is that, unlike with earthquakes and tornadoes, there is ample time to make preparations. We always recommend that you have certain things prepared well in advance before that ominous blob appears on the weather report. Discover valuable tips for pet owners in this informative article provided by a local Dallas, GA vet.

Prioritize Preventative Care

As part of responsible pet ownership, it is important to ensure that your pets receive regular preventative care, including vaccines and parasite control. Protecting your furry friend from dangerous parasites and diseases is not only easier but also more cost-effective than treating them.

This also comes into play when it comes to hurricanes. That extra water can potentially disrupt the habitats of wild animals, some of which may be harboring harmful parasites or diseases. Moist conditions create an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, a potentially fatal parasite. In addition, Fido might interact with other dogs in a shelter or hotel, increasing the risk of potential infestations.

Additionally, many shelters and pet-friendly hotels require documentation of pets’ vaccination and preventative care. It would be unfortunate to be turned away because you forgot to schedule that appointment!

There is a wide range of products available for flea and tick prevention, including pills, topical drops, sprays, and collars. Consult with your veterinarian to discuss the available options and determine what would be most suitable for your needs.

Only buy these products from a veterinary clinic or an approved retail store or site that requires a prescription. It’s important to exercise caution when shopping at box stores, flea markets, and similar places, as you may come across products at lower prices. Some of these might be counterfeit. The unfortunate reality is that there have been instances of pets becoming gravely ill, and even passing away, as a result of receiving treatment from some low-end brands. Consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

Prepare a To-Go Bag

Having a bag prepared for your pet is essential, not only for hurricanes but also for travel, camping, and any other unexpected emergencies that may arise. Do this well in advance, even before any storms pose a threat.

The following is a complete list of stuff to bring.

• Food
• Medications
• Supplements
• Water
• Dishes: Collapsible dishes are a great choice due to their lightweight design.
• Extra leash
• Extra collar
• Tie-line
• Towels
• Blankets
• Treats
• Toys
• First-Aid Kit for Pets
• litter and litterbox (Cats)
• Muzzle (Dogs)
• Life Jacket for dogs
• Wipes

If you have a pocket pet, bird, or reptile, it’s important to customize your pack to meet your pet’s specific requirements. Make sure to regularly check and update perishable items like food, treats, and medications. This way, if your bag goes unused for a long time, you won’t have to dispose of or replace any of its contents. Ask your Dallas, GA veterinarian for suggestions.

Documentation 

It’s important to have your furry pal’s paperwork prepared in advance. As previously stated, shelters typically ask for documentation of a pet’s vaccination history. Consider capturing images of the paperwork and securely storing it online, either by emailing it to yourself or utilizing cloud storage, for convenient access from any location. Obviously, that won’t be effective if cell towers aren’t functioning, though, so it’s also a good idea to have physical copies with you as well. Keep them in your glove compartment for easy access.

We recommend including a printed list of shelters and hotels that are pet-friendly and within reasonable driving distance. It would be helpful to note details such as weight limits, fees, and any other restrictions. This can save you a lot of time if you need to evacuate.

Also, you might want to get a pet first-aid manual or printout. If your pet gets injured, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary care. However, there may be instances where you need to administer first aid before your furry companion can be transported to the vet. Plus, during a major weather event, clinics may be closed. Having the information readily available is always preferable to being caught off guard without it.

Downloading an app is also an option. The Red Cross has an excellent one. Nevertheless, in the event of a disruption in cell service, the app may experience functionality issues. It’s best to have some physical copies of the information.

Choose a Carrier

Traveling in crates is always a safer option for pets. This will not only prevent your pet from moving around in the car, but it also offers additional protection in case of accidents. If you’re evacuating, it also enables you to securely confine your beloved pet in a designated space.

It’s important to crate-train your canine companion. Fido should feel at ease with his crate, even if you don’t plan on having him sleep in it every night. Make sure to include comfortable bedding and a selection of toys to create a cozy environment. Put your information on the carrier as well. A luggage tag works well for this. Alternatively, you could consider using a mailing label. Apply clear tape to make it waterproof.

Make Sure Your Pet’s Identification Is Current

There are numerous accounts of pets going missing in the aftermath of hurricanes. Although some shelters have started to accept pets, it is not a universally adopted practice. Unfortunately, pets are often abandoned in storms. Others may flee out of fear. ID tags are still the best way for someone to be able to contact you if they find your pup.

The importance of microchipping cannot be overstated. Collars and tags may be lost or removed, whereas microchips provide a permanent identification solution. Keep your information up to date in the chipmaker’s database, and verify that your contact details are accurate and current. (Tip: Give the Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool here a try to check.)

Additionally, it might be worth considering getting a GPS tag for your pet. There are options available specifically designed for pets, as well as alternatives like air tags or similar devices. Take a moment to review the various options available before making a purchase. Consider factors such as range, water resistance, battery life, and subscription fees.

Take Time To Train Your Canine Companion

This particular article caters primarily to individuals who own dogs, naturally. It is important to teach Fido basic doggy obedience commands like Sit, Stay, and Come if he doesn’t already know them. This can help prevent your canine companion from wandering away or getting too close to a hazardous location. Work on one at a time, and don’t move on until you’re certain that your pup has mastered the current command. Ask your Dallas, GA vet for more information on training.

Schedule An Appointment At Our Dallas, GA Pet Clinic

Are you seeking information or advice regarding your pet’s health or care? Does your furry friend need to schedule an appointment? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. We are here to assist you as your local Dallas, GA pet hospital!