Living in South Florida means sunshine, palm trees, and beautiful beaches—but it also means preparing for hurricane season. While residents are often well-versed in protecting their homes and families, one critical group is sometimes overlooked: pets. At the Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC), we know that your pets are family too, and hurricane preparedness should always include a plan for their safety and care.
Why Hurricane Preparedness Matters for Pet Owners
When hurricanes hit, they bring unpredictable dangers—power outages, flooding, flying debris, and evacuations. For pet owners, these risks are compounded. Pets may become anxious, flee during storms, or suffer injury or illness due to exposure, contaminated water, or lack of access to food and veterinary care.
South Florida’s hurricane season typically runs from June through November, and each year brings the potential for major storms. Preparing now can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s safety during and after a hurricane.
Hurricane Preparedness for Dog and Cat Owners: What You Need to Do
1. Create a Pet Emergency Kit
Your pet’s emergency kit should be ready to go at a moment’s notice. It should include:
- At least 7 days’ worth of food and water (rotate regularly to keep fresh)
- Medications and medical records in a waterproof container
- Collar with ID tag, harness, and leash
- Current photos of your pet in case they become lost
- Litter box and litter (for cats), waste bags (for dogs)
- Comfort items like toys, a blanket, or bed
- Pet first-aid kit
- Copies of vaccination records and microchip information
2. Secure Your Pet’s Identification
Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number. Microchipping your pet is also highly recommended, as tags can fall off or become damaged.
3. Know Where to Go
If you must evacuate, make sure you know where your pets are allowed. Many evacuation shelters do not accept animals. Identify pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities outside the evacuation zone ahead of time. Some South Florida counties offer pet-friendly shelters, but they may require pre-registration and proof of vaccinations.
4. Prepare Your Home
If you’re sheltering in place:
- Designate a safe room in your home, ideally without windows and with access to fresh water.
- Lay down pee pads or newspapers for bathroom needs.
- Keep crates or carriers ready for transport or to confine nervous pets.
- Close off unsafe areas and remove any hazardous materials or unsecured items.
5. Practice Evacuation Drills
Getting your pet used to their carrier or car trips ahead of time can reduce stress during an actual emergency. Do trial runs to your chosen shelter or hotel if possible, and reward your pet for calm behavior during these practice drills.
6. Monitor for Post-Storm Dangers
After a hurricane, hazards may linger—downed power lines, broken glass, contaminated water, and displaced wildlife. Keep your pet on a leash and supervise them closely during this time. Watch for signs of injury or illness, and contact a veterinarian immediately if needed.
How AEUCC Can Help
At the Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC), we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of your pet year-round, especially during hurricane season. Our facility, located in Deerfield Beach, is fully equipped to handle a wide range of pet emergencies, from storm-related injuries to sudden illness. We operate with an experienced, compassionate staff trained to provide immediate and expert care when your pet needs it most.
Even if your home escapes the worst of a storm, pets may suffer from anxiety, exposure to floodwaters, or encounters with unfamiliar hazards. That’s where having a trusted veterinary partner like AEUCC becomes essential. If you suspect your pet is in distress after a storm—whether it’s limping, vomiting, lethargy, or unusual behavior—don’t wait. Seek Emergency Vet Care right away.
Serving the Greater South Florida Community
Although our office is centrally located in Deerfield Beach, AEUCC proudly serves surrounding areas including:
- Boca Raton
- Coral Springs
- Margate
- Parkland
- Fort Lauderdale
- Pompano
If you’re searching for a trusted Boca Raton emergency vet, look no further. We are here to help you weather any storm—literally and figuratively—by ensuring your pets receive the care they need when it matters most.
Hurricane Preparedness for Dogs & Cats
Preparing for hurricane season means protecting every member of your family—including your pets. Taking the time now to create a plan, gather supplies, and know your options can save lives and prevent heartbreak.
If your pet needs urgent or emergency care before, during, or after a storm, don’t hesitate to contact the Animal Emergency and Urgent Care Center (AEUCC). Our dedicated team is here for you and your furry companions—rain or shine. Call or visit us today if you need expert emergency veterinary care. Let AEUCC be your trusted partner in hurricane preparedness for dogs across South Florida.
