Hurricane Season Pet Prep: Keep Your Pets Safe in Southwest Florida

Hurricane season in Southwest Florida runs from June 1st to November 30th, and while we prepare our homes and families, our pets should be included in our preparations. At Petology, we want to help make sure your furry friends are prepared to weather the storm safely with you. The key is to pre-plan. In an emergency, you will want to grab and go. When we are hurried and stressed, it's much easier to overlook the things that seem obvious.

Here’s a simple checklist to keep your pets safe, calm, and cared for no matter what the season brings.

🧳 1. Build a Hurricane Season Pet Emergency Kit

Just like humans, pets need their own hurricane kit, which should include:

• At least 7 days’ worth of food, water, and medications

• Copies of vet records 

• Leash, collar, harness, and/or carrier

  Does each of your furry family members have a safe and secure carrier? It is always a good idea to acclimate them to a carrier prior to actually needing it. Some helpful tips can be found here: https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/cat-carrier-follies-how-to-help-cats-learn-to-love-their-carriers/

• Food and water bowls

• Towels, waste bags, litter, and potty pads

• A recent photo of your pet (in case you get separated)

• Comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket

Pack supplies in a waterproof container and keep them near your own emergency supplies.

📍 2. Know Where You’ll Go

Not all shelters accept pets. Check in advance:

• Which county pet-friendly shelters are open

• Nearby pet-friendly hotels

• Friends or family outside the evacuation zone

• Boarding facilities that are in flood zones may not be able to take your pet

🐶 3. Make Sure ID Is Up to Date

Microchips save lives — but only if the contact info is current.

• Double-check your pet’s ID tag and microchip registration

• Include a tag with your cell number and an emergency contact

If your pet is not microchipped, talk to your vet about this quick procedure.

Living in SW Florida comes at the cost of hurricane preparedness

💊 4. Talk to Your Vet

• If your pet is anxious during storms or during travel, ask your veterinarian about medications and pheromone sprays

• Does your pet get car sick? There are medications that can help prevent this

• Stock up on any prescription medications before the storm

🐾 Final Tip 

Preparing early means less stress — for both you and your pets. Let us know how the Petology team can make your hurricane season less stressful!