WSVN — It’s not just people who need protection or shelter from a storm, your pets do too and we want to help make sure they stay safe.
The experts at the Humane Society of Broward County say the time to prepare is now.
“When you’re preparing for your family for hurricane season, you also have to take into consideration preparing your pets,” said Cherie Wachter, Humane Society of Broward County.
STOCK UP ON WATER:
If you’re planning to ride out the storm at home, make sure you have at least a two-week supply of food and fresh water for your pet.
“We suggest it’s a gallon a day per person, I would suggest the same amount of water for your pet,” Wachter said.
MEDICATIONS:
If your furry friend needs prescription medications, get them filled before storm season.
“Don’t wait until the last minute to refill those prescriptions if your dog or cat needs to take a daily medication,” she added.
PET-COLLAR WITH ID TAG:
Another life-saving tip: make sure your pet has a collar with a current ID tag. The most important information is your phone number and address.
“If cell phone towers aren’t working, your dog gets out, a neighbor finds it two streets away, they can walk your pet home,” Wachter said.
And if your pet has a microchip… “It’s very important before hurricane season to make sure your chip is registered.”
Your vet or local animal shelter can make sure your chip is working. Also, keep a pet carrier on hand, in case you have to leave your home in a hurry.
HIDING SPOTS:
“It’s absolutely important you know where your pets hiding places are in case you have to leave at the last minute,” Wachter told 7News.
Should I sedate my stressed out pet before the storm?
Cherie Wachter: “Consult your veterinarian before you give anything to your pet.”
SHELTERS:
If you live in an evacuation zone and have nowhere to go, both Miami-Dade and Broward counties have pet-friendly shelters.
In Broward, the pet shelter is located at Millennium Middle School in Tamarac. In Miami-Dade, one shelter is located in Southwest Dade at the fair grounds. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion, the other Miami-Dade shelter is located at Michael M. Krop Senior High School on 215th Street.
“Pet owners bringing pets to a pet-friendly evacuation center are required to remain onsite with their pets,” Kathy Labrada, Miami-Dade Animal Services said.
If you do plan on riding the storm out in a shelter, make sure you bring enough food. Water will be provided. Have your vet’s information in case of an emergency, proof of vaccinations and pictures of your pet. Keep in mind, the shelter should be considered a last resort.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Miami-Dade: http://www.miamidade.gov/animals/disaster-preparedness.asp
Broward County: https://humanebroward.com/hurricane-news/hurricane-think
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