Key Points
Hurricane season in Florida can be stressful for both people and pets. Most families spend time stocking up on shutters, batteries, generators, flashlights, radios, food, and water, but one important family member is often overlooked until the last minute, our pets.
Preparing your pets for hurricane season ahead of time can help you avoid a frightening and heartbreaking situation during an emergency. Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, or other small animals, having a plan in place matters just as much for them as it does for the rest of the family.
Pet Hurricane Checklist
Before hurricane season arrives, gather these pet emergency essentials:
- 7 to 10-day supply of pet food and water
- Medications
- Vaccination records
- Collar with ID tags
- Leash
- Crate or carrier
- Litter and litter pan for cats
- Towels and cleaning supplies
- Plastic grocery bags and newspapers for cleanup
- Manual can opener
- Recent photo of your pet
Store supplies in a dry, easily accessible location in case you need to leave quickly.
Build a Pet Emergency Kit Before Hurricane Season Starts
When preparing for a hurricane, always stock up on extra pet food, water, medications, and supplies early. If you have an outdoor cat, have a litter pan and litter available so your cat can safely relocate indoors during the storm.
Since supplies become harder to find as a storm approaches, thinking ahead can make all the difference. Emergency boarding facilities, kennels, and designated pet shelters often operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
If your pet stays at a veterinary office or boarding facility during the storm, understand that it does not necessarily guarantee staff will remain on-site throughout dangerous conditions.
How to Keep Pets Calm During a Hurricane
Whipping winds, flying debris, thunder, and relentless rain can frighten anyone, especially animals who are naturally more sensitive to changes in the environment.
When preparing your pets for hurricane season, think about crates. A crate can become a place of safety and comfort during the storm, but it should be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and sleep comfortably.
If your pet routinely becomes frightened during thunderstorms, talk with your veterinarian ahead of time about safe calming options. Some pet owners keep mild sedatives or veterinarian-approved antihistamines available during hurricane season.
Keep in mind that certain medications may increase thirst, meaning your pet may need extra water and more frequent potty breaks.
Never Leave Pets Behind During a Hurricane
If you evacuate, never leave your pets behind.
Pets left alone during a hurricane may become terrified, injured, trapped, or vulnerable to floodwaters and storm debris. Even a broken window or damaged door can allow a frightened pet to escape.
After a major storm, familiar scents, landmarks, fences, and surroundings may no longer exist, making it extremely difficult for lost pets to find their way home.
If you are evacuating with pets, contact hotels along your evacuation route before leaving to confirm their pet policies. During emergencies, many hotels that are normally not pet-friendly may temporarily open their doors to evacuees with animals.
Be sure to ask about:
- Size restrictions
- Breed restrictions
- Additional pet fees
- Vaccination requirements
Always bring current vaccination records with you.
Hurricane Safety Tips for Pets After the Storm
Once the storm passes, dangers may still remain.
When returning home, inspect your property carefully before allowing pets outside. Watch for:
- Broken glass
- Sharp debris
- Nails
- Downed power lines
- Flood contamination
- Displaced snakes and toads
If your neighborhood has suffered major damage, keep your pet on a leash until they become familiar with the altered environment again.
Many animals become disoriented after hurricanes because the landscape and scents they rely on have changed dramatically.
Pet-Friendly Hurricane Shelters in South Florida
All pet-friendly shelters generally accept:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Domestic birds
- Rabbits
- Gerbils
- Guinea pigs
- Hamsters
- Mice
Service animals are permitted in general population shelters as required under federal law.
Broward County Pet-Friendly Hurricane Shelters
Everglades High School
17100 SW 48 Court, Miramar, FL 33027
Lyons Creek Middle School
4333 Sol Press Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33073
Falcon Cove Middle School
4251 Bonaventure Blvd., Weston, FL 33332
Palm Beach County Pet-Friendly Hurricane Shelters
West Boynton Recreational Center
6000 Northtree Blvd, Lake Worth, FL 33463
This shelter is generally available to Palm Beach County residents who live in:
- Mandatory evacuation zones
- Mobile homes
- Substandard housing
Proof of residency may be required. Pets must typically be accompanied by one owner who remains at the shelter.
Miami-Dade County Pet-Friendly Hurricane Shelters
E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion
10901 S.W. 24 Street, Miami, FL 33199
Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High
1410 NE 215 Street (County Line Road), Miami, FL 33179
These shelters are generally available for residents living in:
- Evacuation zones
- Unsafe structures
- Mobile homes or trailers
Proof of residency, vaccination records, and pet licensing may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pets and Hurricanes
Can pets stay in hurricane shelters?
Some shelters in South Florida allow pets, but requirements vary by county. Always verify eligibility and requirements before hurricane season begins.
What should I pack for my pet during a hurricane?
Pack food, water, medications, vaccination records, a leash, ID tags, litter supplies, towels, and a crate or carrier.
Should I leave my pet home during a hurricane evacuation?
No. Pets should never be left behind during a hurricane evacuation.
How do I keep my pet calm during a storm?
A comfortable crate, familiar bedding, calming routines, and veterinarian-approved medications may help reduce anxiety during severe weather.
Preparing your pets for hurricane season ahead of time can help keep your entire family safer when a storm threatens South Florida. A little planning now can prevent panic later and help ensure your pets remain protected before, during, and after the storm.
Visit the Florida Agriculture Department’s Website for more information.
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