Hurricane season is now upon us, running from June 1 through Nov. 30. It’s expected to be a busy hurricane season this year, according to the National Hurricane Center. A total of 12 named storms, five hurricanes and two major hurricanes are expected this season.
The entire Atlantic and Gulf coasts are considered high-risk areas. Inland areas are affected by high winds, floods and tornadoes. The best protection from a hurricane is to be prepared and have a plan. These plans should include the entire family, and that means our pets.
Pets are abandoned during hurricanes and natural disasters every year. Pet parents’ lack of planning is a big part of the problem. Many find themselves scrambling to find a safe harbor for their pet in the event of evacuation from their homes. The most important part of a disaster plan is to prepare for an evacuation. Red Cross disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of states’ health and safety regulations and other considerations. Further, most kennels, veterinarians, and animal shelters are usually filled beyond capacity.
TripsWithPets.com’s Disaster Preparedness and Resource Guide for Pets offers a pet evacuation plan checklist, complete with resources on finding a safe place for pets to stay, what to do if pets are home alone when disaster strikes, as well as recommended items to include in a Pet Evacuation & Disaster Kit.
The guide also offers resources such as; direct access to the National Hurricane Center, Weather Channel, American Red Cross, and FEMA. In addition, pet parents will be able to directly book pet friendly accommodations in the event of an evacuation.
“We never know when a disaster will strike. That’s why we all need to take the time now to prepare a disaster plan for our pets” said Kim Salerno, president and founder of TripsWithPets.com. “The best thing you can do to ensure the safety and well being of your pets is to be prepared.”
To keep pets safe, create a disaster plan now. Learn more at: https://www.tripswithpets.com/disaster-preparedness-guide-for-pets.
