Pet Safety During Storms

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

We all know what we should do when a storm strikes or is about to strike – have an emergency kit ready, know the safest structure in your home, avoid electrical equipment, etc. However, have you thought about what to do with your pets when a storm strikes? Thorough emergency preparedness is important, particularly in areas where you may be forced to leave your home.

But what about more common thunderstorms or tornadoes? Here are five tips from ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center that you can use to help keep your beloved pets safe during storms.

• Shelter – During sever storms it may be easier to take shelter in a basement or small interior room like a bathroom. Make sure pets are acquainted with – and comfortable in – that area of your house and will go there with you easily if need be.
• Poisons – Make sure the shelter inside your home is free of dangers for pets. Many people keep pest poisons in the same basement where they may be sheltering during the storm. Unfortunately, pets are very good at finding baits and many are all too eager to eat it.
• Anxiety – Many pets have storm or firework anxiety and may be prescribed medication to help them cope. Remember, its always best to give pets a dose of medication prior to the storm to see how he or she will react – and pets should always get trial runs of medication during periods when the veterinarian is available in case questions arise.
• Evacuation – Among the items your clients should have handy are leashes and/or carriers, food, medication and water. Pet owners should know where favorite hiding places are for pets so they can easily found during emergencies.
• First Aid – Help keep your pets safe by having a pet first aid kid handy.

If you have any damages due to storms please call SERVPRO of Tacoma at 253-896-3000.

5 Pet Safety Tips for Storm Preparedness: https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/shelter-health-poison-control/5-pet-safety-tips-storm-preparedness

Pet First Aid Kit: https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/saving-lives-shelter-health-poison-control/how-make-pet-first-aid-kit