The dog days of summer are here, which for those of us residing in the southeast, also signifies the arrival of hurricane season. There is a clear correlation between the increase in average temperatures and the intensification and frequency of hurricanes. One positive aspect of hurricanes is that, unlike earthquakes and tornadoes, you have sufficient time to make necessary preparations. It’s crucial to have certain things in order long before the storm arrives. In this article, a local Lawrenceville, GA vet provides some helpful tips for pet owners.
Prioritize Preventative Care
It’s important to stay on top of your pet’s well-being by ensuring they receive regular preventative care from your Lawrenceville, GA vet, including vaccines and parasite control. Keeping your furry friend protected from dangerous parasites and diseases is not only easier but also more cost-effective than treating them after the fact.
When it comes to hurricane season, there are several factors to consider. For example, excess water could potentially disrupt the habitats of wild animals, some of which may be harboring harmful diseases. Moist conditions also create an ideal breeding ground for mosquitos. As you may be aware, mosquitos can transmit heartworm, a highly dangerous parasite that poses a serious threat to your beloved pet. In addition, Fido might encounter other dogs in a shelter or hotel, increasing the risk of potential infestations.
There is another important aspect to consider, apart from the primary goal of keeping your pet safe. Documentation of pets’ vaccinations and preventative care is often required by many shelters and pet-friendly hotels. It would be unfortunate to be denied entry simply because you neglected to make an appointment with your Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian.
There is a wide range of products available for flea and tick prevention, including pills, topical drops, sprays, and collars. Consult with your pet’s doctor to discuss the available options and determine the best course of action for your situation.
We strongly recommend that you only buy these products from a veterinary clinic or an approved retail store or site that requires a prescription. While it is possible to find products at discounted prices at box stores, flea markets, and similar places, you should do so with caution. Sadly, there have been many instances where pets have experienced severe illness or even death following treatment with certain lower-quality brands. Consult with your Lawrenceville, GA vet for guidance.
Prepare a To-Go Bag
Having a bag prepared ahead of time for your pet is essential, not only for hurricanes but also for travel, camping, and any other unexpected emergencies that may arise. It’s wise to do this well in advance of any potential storms.
Below is a list of items to bring:
- Food
- Medications for your pet
- Supplements
- Bottled water
- Collapsible dishes
- Extra leash
- Extra collar
- Tie-line
- Towels
- Blankets
- Treats
- Toys
- First-aid kit for pets
- Litter and litterbox (cats)
- Muzzle (dogs)
- Pet lifejacket
- Cleaning wipes
For pocket pets, birds, or reptiles, customize your pack to meet your pet’s specific requirements. Make sure to regularly check and replace perishable items like food, treats, and medications. That way, if your bag remains unused for an extended period of time, there will be no need for you to dispose of or replace any of its contents. Consult with your Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian for additional recommendations.
Prepare/Collect Documentation
Make sure to have all the necessary paperwork prepared for your furry companion well in advance. As previously stated, shelters typically ask for documentation showing that a pet’s vaccinations are current. It’s a good idea to take pictures of the paperwork and store them digitally, either by emailing them to yourself or saving them in the cloud. This way, you can conveniently access them from any location. Obviously, that plan will be ineffective if cell towers are not functioning, so you should still try to have physical copies with you as well. We recommend storing them in your glove compartment for easy access.
In terms of documentation, it would also be helpful to have a printed list of pet-friendly shelters and hotels that are within a few hours’ drive. Take note of details such as weight limits, fees, and any other restrictions. This will be a time-saver in case you ever need to evacuate.
We also suggest including a pet first-aid brochure or printout. If your pet ever gets injured, you should seek immediate veterinary care. However, there may be situations where you need to provide first aid to your pet before you can make it to the vet. In addition, during a significant weather event, nearby clinics may be temporarily closed. Having the information you need readily available is always a good idea.
Downloading an app is also an option. The Red Cross has an excellent one. Although, in the event of a disruption in cell service, the app may not function as intended, so having physical copies of information may still be your best bet.
Invest In A Carrier
Traveling in crates is always a safer option for pets. This not only ensures that your companion remains secure and stationary in the car, but also offers an additional layer of safety in the event of any unforeseen mishaps. If you’re evacuating, it also enables you to securely confine your pet in a designated area.
If you haven’t done so already, it may be a good idea to crate-train your canine companion. It’s important for Fido to feel at ease in his crate, even if he won’t be sleeping in it every night. Make sure to include comfortable bedding and a selection of toys to create a cozy and welcoming environment. You should also include your information on the carrier as well. A luggage tag can be used for this purpose. Or you can use a mailing label. Just apply some clear tape on top of it to make it waterproof.
Ensure Your Pet’s Identification Is Current
It is not uncommon for pets to go missing in the aftermath of a hurricane. Although some shelters have started accepting pets, not all of them have adopted this policy. Sadly, it is not unusual for pets to end up abandoned or to flee out of fear. In any event, it’s essential that your pet has current ID tags.
We strongly recommend having your furry pal microchipped. Microchips provide a permanent identification solution, as they cannot be lost or removed like collars and tags. Just be sure to keep your information up to date in the chipmaker’s database and verify that your contact details are accurate and current.
Additionally, it might be worth considering getting a GPS tag for your pet. There are options available specifically designed for pets, as well as alternatives like an Air Tag or similar device. Research the various options before making a purchase, and consider factors such as range, water resistance, battery life, and subscription fees.
Training
For dog owners, it’s important to invest time in teaching basic doggy obedience commands like Sit, Stay, and Come. This can help prevent your dog from wandering away or getting too close to a hazardous area in the event or aftermath of a hurricane.
Schedule an Appointment at Our Lawrenceville, GA Pet Clinic
Have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Ask away! Need to schedule an appointment for your furry family member? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. As your local Lawrenceville, GA vet clinic, we are here to assist you!
