It's Disaster Preparedness Month!

It's Disaster Preparedness Month!

Across the country, September is Disaster Preparedness Month. And here in South Florida, that means making sure we're ready for the possibility of a hurricane. When storms approach, our local authorities diligently remind us how to prepare. But what about our pets?

Regarding emergency supplies, allot at least two to three gallons of water per pet. Each pet should have at least a week's worth of food and medications on hand before a storm arrives. Cats require at least a week's supply of extra cat litter per cat. A kiddie pool filled with sod can be kept indoors so dogs have a place to answer nature's call without the risk of going outdoors during a storm. If you plan to use a public shelter, bear in mind that Dade County only has two pet friendly shelters, and you must register to use them ahead of time. You can do this at any time by visiting www.miamidade.gov/hurricane or calling 786-331-5354. Pet owners are solely responsible for the care, feeding and walking of their pets while in the shelter. Be sure your pet's vaccinations are up to date, and bring proof of their vaccination status and registration.

With a little forward planning and due diligence, South Floridians can weather the worst of the season - and look forward to our beautiful winters!

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