Living in St. Petersburg means hurricane preparation is part of our annual routine. Most of us know to stock water, batteries, extra medications, protect important documents, and keep an eye on the forecast. Preparing your pet deserves the same attention.
The worst time to discover that your cat refuses to enter a carrier, your dog’s medication is almost gone, or your evacuation destination does not allow pets, is when a storm is already approaching. A little preparation now can make an evacuation safer and much less stressful for everyone.
Here is how to build a practical hurricane plan for your dog or cat, including what to pack in a pet evacuation bag, and what to think about before an evacuation order is issued.
How should I prepare my pet before hurricane season?
Start with the basics while the weather is calm.
Make sure your pet’s vaccines are current , and that they are up-to-date on preventive care. Keep a hard copy and a digital copy of their medical records and their county license readily available.
Your dog or cat should have a collar with a name and phone number, and microchipped pets should have current phone numbers and contact information registered with the microchip company. If you have moved or changed phone numbers since your pet was microchipped, take a few minutes to update the record.
Keep a recent photo of your pet on your phone. It is also helpful to have a photo of you and your pet together. If you become separated during an evacuation, those photos can help with identification and proof of ownership.
If your pet is due for an exam, vaccines, medication monitoring, or prescription refills, try to take care of those needs before a storm is on the map. A routine visit is much easier to schedule before everyone in the area is preparing at the same time.
What should go in a pet hurricane evacuation bag?
A pet emergency bag should be packed before you need it and stored somewhere easy to grab. A plastic storage bin, waterproof duffel, or sturdy backpack works well.
Aim to have enough supplies for at least several days. If you have room for a longer supply of food and medication, even better.
Pet Hurricane Evacuation Bag Checklist:
- Food for several days, stored in sealed waterproof containers
- Bottled water specifically for your pet
- Food and water bowls
- Any daily medications in their original labeled containers
- A written list of medications, doses, medical conditions, and allergies
- Copies of vaccination records and medical records
- Rabies certificate and county license information
- Veterinarian contact information
- Microchip number and microchip company contact information
- Collar with current identification tag
- Harness and leash
- Recent photos of your pet
- Photo of you with your pet
- First aid supply bag
- Waste bags for dogs
- Litter, a small litter box, and scoop for cats
- Towels or a small blanket
- Familiar toy or comfort item
- Treats
- Can opener if your pet eats canned food that does not have a pull tab
- Flashlight
- Disposable gloves
- Zip-top bags or waterproof pouches for documents and supplies
- Carrier or kennel appropriate for your pet
Keep the bag together. If you use something from it during the year, replace it. It is also a good idea to review the bag at the beginning of hurricane season and check food expiration dates, medications, batteries, and contact information.
Where can I evacuate with my pet in St. Petersburg?
Decide on more than one destination before a storm approaches.
That might include a friend or family member outside your evacuation area, a pet-friendly hotel, or a designated pet-friendly public shelter. If you plan to use a hotel, check its pet policy in advance and confirm the policy again when you make a reservation. Rules may change during emergencies, and size or breed restrictions may still apply.
Pinellas County operates pet-friendly shelters during evacuations, but not every shelter opens for every storm. Shelter locations and availability depend on the specific emergency. Check current Pinellas County emergency information before you leave rather than relying on a shelter you remember from a previous storm.
If you are ordered to evacuate, take your pets with you. Do not stay in an unsafe evacuation zone because you are unsure what to do with them.
For residents who may use public transportation during an evacuation, it is also worth checking current PSTA pet transportation requirements before the storm. Having a carrier ready for cats and small dogs gives you more transportation options.
What should I do after the storm?
Do not assume your yard or neighborhood is immediately safe just because the wind has stopped.
Keep dogs on leash and cats securely indoors or in carriers until you know the area is safe. Fences may be damaged, gates may be open, familiar landmarks may look different, and frightened pets can become disoriented.
Watch for standing water, debris, downed power lines, broken glass, displaced wildlife, contaminated food or water, and spilled chemicals.
If your pet was injured, missed important medications, became overheated during an evacuation, developed vomiting or diarrhea, or simply does not seem right after the storm, contact a veterinarian .
Prepare now so you are not scrambling later
The goal of hurricane preparation is not to predict exactly what will happen. It is to give yourself options.
Know your evacuation zone. Know where you could go with your pets. Keep the carrier accessible. Refill medications before they become urgent. Put the food, water, records, leash, litter, and other essentials in one place.
When a storm is approaching St. Petersburg, there will already be plenty to think about. Your pet’s plan should be one thing you do not have to figure out at the last minute.
If your pet is due for vaccines, needs a medication refill, has a chronic medical condition, or you want help getting ready before a storm, contact St. Petersburg Animal Hospital & Urgent Care . We are happy to help you prepare.
