Making an Evacuation Plan for Pets During Hurricanes

Living in Florida means enjoying sunny skies and coastal breezes, but it also means facing the reality of hurricane season. Each year, residents of Fort Myers prepare their homes and families for the possibility of evacuation. Yet many pet owners face a challenge: keeping their pets safe when a hurricane forces them to leave home. Colonial Animal Hospital knows your pets are family, and no evacuation plan is complete without them.

Why Pets Need a Hurricane Evacuation Plan

Hurricanes bring the potential of high winds, flooding, flying debris, and power outages that can make your home unsafe in an instant. Sadly, pets left behind during evacuations face life-threatening risks. Planning ahead gives your pet the same protection and security as the rest of your family.

Steps to Create a Pet-Friendly Evacuation Plan

Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters and Lodging
Not all evacuation shelters accept pets. Research ahead of time to find pet-friendly hurricane shelters, boarding facilities, or hotels in your area. Many counties in Florida maintain lists of approved shelters, so keep this information easily accessible.

Assemble a Pet Evacuation Kit

• 7 days’ worth of pet food and bottled water, plus bowls
• Medications and veterinary records
• Leashes, harnesses, and carriers for safe transport
• Sanitation items like litter, waste bags, and pet-safe disinfectant wipes
• Comfort items (blanket or toys)
• Pet first aid kit

Make sure that your pet’s evacuation kit is stored in a waterproof container. Regularly check the veterinary records to verify that you have the most up-to-date copy. Also, swap out food before it goes stale.

Secure Proper Identification
In the chaos of a hurricane evacuation, pets can become separated from their families. Your pet should have a collar with an ID tag. Having your pet microchipped during a wellness exam (if they aren’t already) is an extra layer of protection. Cats and dogs with microchips are around twice as likely to be reunited with their owners. Be sure to have recent photos in case you need to create a lost-pet flyer or prove ownership.

Practice Ahead of Time
Hurricanes are stressful enough without trying to figure out logistics during the storm. Practice loading your pets into carriers or vehicles so they are familiar with the routine. This makes evacuation faster and less stressful.

Keep Your Car Storm-Ready
If evacuation is likely (and you have a car), fill your gas tank early and store your pet’s kit somewhere easily accessible if you need to run to your vehicle. As a reminder, the kit should not be stored anywhere with high heat that might spoil the food or other items.

Tips for Reducing Pets’ Stress During a Hurricane Evacuation

Hurricane evacuations are overwhelming for humans and pets. To make the process smoother, speak in a calm, reassuring tone to your pet. Many cats and dogs take emotional cues from their people. Maintain routines as best as possible once you reach safety; regular feeding, play, and walking times provide comfort.

Prepare Your Pet for Hurricane Season in Fort Myers, FL

When a hurricane approaches, every moment counts. A thought-out evacuation plan increases the odds that your pets are not left behind or put at unnecessary risk. By preparing now, you can face hurricane season knowing your entire family, including your pets, is protected. Colonial Animal Hospital helps pet owners prepare with vaccines and microchipping in Fort Myers and for pets from neighboring areas like Estero and Lehigh Acres. Schedule an appointment for veterinary care.