Preparing Your Pets For Hurricane Season

It’s that time of the year, Miami.  We know what we’re supposed to do every June, and I’ll be the first to admit that for the past few years, I was shamefully lackadaisical in the hurricane planning department. Irma was a jarring wake-up call for me, and I suspect I am not alone. So let’s talk storm preparedness!

As many of us know, South Florida has hurricane shelters which allow you to bring your pets. What many people do not know, however, is that only some of our shelters are pet-friendly, and your pets must be registered ahead of time. For information on pre-registration, please contact animal services at http://www.miamidade.gov/animals/disaster-preparedness.asp.  Since spaces are limited, do this now if you would like to use this service.

When preparing your hurricane supply list, don’t forget about your pets. Make sure you have enough non-perishable food and bottled water for your pets, and double check the contents of the pet first aid kit. Be sure to refill their supplements and prescription medications. Decide where your pet will ride out a storm and have plenty of toys to keep him occupied. In Miami, hurricane preparation is a fact of life. It’s a small price to pay for living in the vibrant, sunny, diverse metropolis we are privileged enough to call home.

Grendel is ready for storm season!
Photograph by Joan Saperstein at PetStar Photography