Hurricane Safety Zone

Pet Safety -- Because Your Pets Should Matter, Too.

If you value your pets like you value your very own life, then it is imperative that you prepare properly and take pet safety measures before, during and after a hurricane. Pets have hurricane safety needs too.

Most pets are domesticated, but during a hurricane you may be trapped in your house for hours or even days; to a pet this is torture. One pet safety tidbit to keep in mind is that pets need space. Pets need space to walk, relieve themselves and just be animals. Safety products are crucial for this! They are crucial to home safety in general!

Pet safety tips for you to follow

In the event of a hurricane, you and your family must not only plan for your own safety, but also for pet safety. Please be aware that, for health and safety reasons, pets are NOT allowed in American Red Cross shelters. If you have to evacuate, plan for your pet now. Take your Pet Survival Kit if you go to a friend's or relatives, or to a hotel. Practice dog safety wherever you go!

Pet Survival Kit:

Have proper ID tags and pet licenses
Have some sort of transporter for your pet (carriage, cage, etc.)
Pet leash with collar
Enough food for your pet
Water bowls and food bowls

After the storm has passed, be careful in allowing your pet outdoors. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet could easily be confused and become lost. Downed power lines and animals and insects brought in with high water could present real dangers to your pet. Take care not to allow your pet to consume food or water which may have become contaminated. Your pets matter, too, and you should do everything to keep them safe, comfortable and happy.

Pet safety is often taken for granted, but it should be at the top of the list when it comes to planning.

Everyone's safety counts, making pet safety a must. It is true. Many companies are now making great pet safety products specifically in response tot he most recent storms to hit our Gulf coast. Taking a look in advance of the storms will get you a head start and you might just find a pet safety product that will save our pet's life.