As Accuweather forecasters expect Hurricane Flo is to “unleash catastrophic flooding” along the East Coast this week, tens of thousands of southern residents are facing mandatory evacuation orders.
And since many other regions of the coast are bracing for the effects of Hurricane Flo, many more may need to leave their homes as well. While they will likely pre-pack essentials for themselves in advance, now seems like a good time to remind everyone not to forget about their furry family members.
While you may not dream of leaving your pet behind if you had to flee during a natural disaster, thousands of pets were abandoned when Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico last September — and hundreds of thousands were killed or left behind during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
If you’re in an area that may be evacuated during Hurricane Flo — or whatever situation that may come, really — it’s important to make sure you have a pet evacuation kit.
What should be in your Hurricane Flo pet evacuation kit
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) offers these tips for packing a pet evacuation kit ahead of Hurricane Flo — or any future situation.
• Food & medicine
Make you sure you have at least: three to seven days’ worth of dry and canned pop-top food (but be sure to check expiration dates if packed in advance); two-weeks worth of medicine (also check expiration dates if packed in advance); a water supply for at least seven days; a feeding dish and water bowl, and liquid dish soap.
• First aid
The AVMA suggests packing anti-diarrheal medication; antibiotic ointment, bandage tape and scissors; cotton bandage rolls; flea and tick prevention (if need in your area); isopropyl alcohol; latex gloves; saline solution, towels, washcloths and tweezers.
• Sanitation
Bring litter boxes and scoop, newspapers, paper towels and trash bags, as well as household chlorine bleach or disinfectant.
• Documents
The AVMA urges pet owners to include ID papers, including proof of ownership; medical records and medication instructions; an emergency contact list with your vet and a photo of your pet, especially one with you and/or your family, in your pet evacuation kit.
• Travel
Make sure your pet crate or carrier has your contact information on it, and be sure to bring an extra collar or harness with ID tags and a leash and a muzzle. Bring flashlights and extra batteries as well.
• Comfort
Chances are your pet will be just as frightened as you if you have to evacuate during Hurricane Flo, so bring their favorite treats and toys as well as an extra blanket or familiar bedding.
• Hotels & shelters
Many evacuation shelters — and hotels — do not accept pets, but will with advance notice. You can also visit bringfido.com/hurricane to find pet-friendly evacuation shelters for Hurricane Flo.
