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.
Before hurricane season arrives, gather these pet emergency essentials:
Store supplies in a dry, easily accessible location in case you need to leave quickly.
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.
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.
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:
Always bring current vaccination records with you.
Once the storm passes, dangers may still remain.
When returning home, inspect your property carefully before allowing pets outside. Watch for:
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.
All pet-friendly shelters generally accept:
Service animals are permitted in general population shelters as required under federal law.
17100 SW 48 Court, Miramar, FL 33027
4333 Sol Press Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33073
4251 Bonaventure Blvd., Weston, FL 33332
6000 Northtree Blvd, Lake Worth, FL 33463
This shelter is generally available to Palm Beach County residents who live in:
Proof of residency may be required. Pets must typically be accompanied by one owner who remains at the shelter.
10901 S.W. 24 Street, Miami, FL 33199
1410 NE 215 Street (County Line Road), Miami, FL 33179
These shelters are generally available for residents living in:
Proof of residency, vaccination records, and pet licensing may be required.
Some shelters in South Florida allow pets, but requirements vary by county. Always verify eligibility and requirements before hurricane season begins.
Pack food, water, medications, vaccination records, a leash, ID tags, litter supplies, towels, and a crate or carrier.
No. Pets should never be left behind during a hurricane evacuation.
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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