PET FRIENDLY: Prepare Your Pets for a Weather Emergency

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artemispetfriendlylogoAlthough we dodged Hurricane Joaquin, it's a good time to start thinking about how  to prepare your pets in case of a weather emergency.

The key word is "prepare"

Your animal emergency kit should be prepared ahead of time and should contain: a pet carrier (if applicable), muzzle, a collar with identification, leash, any of your pet's current medications, waste bags and a three day supply of food and water.

Updated pictures of your animal showing the face front and sides should be kept  with any medical records, which are helpful to have in case you need to board them at a facility or hospital that is out of the path of an upcoming storm.

Going Outisde

According to Dr. Melanie Galanis, Medical Director of Artemis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Services, only go outside if you absolutely need to during a storm. When taking your pet outside, keep them on a leash with a collar and/or harness and make sure to stay away from fallen debris, avoid standing under trees and high levels of water.

Keep your pets' trek outside to do their business as short as possible.

Storm Anxiety

Storms can be harrowing for some pets. If your dog or cat is known to have “storm anxiety,” visiting your local vet prior to the storm to get anti anxiety medicine is one option. Thunder shirts can also help reduce their anxiety.

Pet Friendly Shelters and Hotels

Find a safe place to stay ahead of time; never assume that you will be allowed to bring your pet to an emergency shelter. It certainly pays to contact your local office of emergency management before a weather event to see if you  can evacuate with your pets and verify that there will be shelters in your area that take people and their pets. Research and contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to find out if they accept pets and ask about any restrictions on number, size and species. Inquire if a "no pet" policy would be waived in an emergency

If you already have an emergency plan, be sure to consider every member of your family!

Artemis Veterinary Emergency Hospital  is specifically designed and equipped to provide highest quality critical care for pets. Their staff is well-trained in emergency procedures. Whether a minor or major medical problem, we will provide pets with the best possible care. Artemis VESS is open 24/7 and never closes.

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