With severe weather on the way, it’s important to take a few extra steps to ensure the safety of your pets. Here’s some tips on how to keep your pets secure and calm during severe weather events:
1. Keep Pets Indoors: Always bring your pets inside when bad weather hits. High winds, lightning, and hail can be frightening and dangerous for animals if left outside.
2. ID Tags Are a Must: Make sure all pets are wearing their collars with ID tags at all times, even if they are indoors. In the event that they get scared and try to run, having ID tags will increase the chances of being reunited with your pet.
3. Secure Safe Spaces: Prepare a quiet, safe area for your pets like a kennel or separate room. Bathrooms make great make-shift safe spaces in the event of a storm. Severe weather can cause a lot of loud, stressful noises which can lead to pets panicking and attempting to hide or escape. Keeping them contained during a severe weather event is the best way to prevent a lost pet.
4. For Cats: Having a carrier prepared will help them feel more comfortable and secure. Cats often hide or seek shelter during storms, so a carrier can provide them with a calm, safe environment.
5. Stay Calm: Your pets look to you for guidance during stressful situations. Speak softly and stay calm to help ease their anxiety. The more relaxed you are, the more relaxed they’ll be.
6. Prepare Food & Medications: Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared, complete with medications, food and water and any other necessary supplies. If storms cause you to stay inside for an extended period of time, you’ll need plenty of supplies available to you.