Floods are the most common type of severe weather in the United States, and they happen year round.
The threat of severe weather and flash flooding could be dangerous to animals. With Hurricane Harvey causing severe damage to the state of Texas, let’s discuss some ways to prepare your dogs for severe weather, and how to keep them safe during a potential flooding situation.
Let’s start with this important quote from the American Red Cross:
In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them too. If it’s not safe for you to stay behind then it’s not safe to leave pets behind either. Take action now so you know how to best care for your furry friends when the unexpected occurs.
Before a Storm or Flood
Create a plan
Knowing how to keep your dog safe during a flood starts with crafting a personalized emergency plan. Because you might choose to respond differently to each storm, it’s a good idea to have more than one dog disaster plan.
ID Your Pet
Make sure your pet is microchipped with up to date contact information. Your dog should be wearing a collar with their tag ID on it, that identifies them and you should you become separated.
Make a kit
Having a dog disaster plan is only the first part of how to keep your dog safe during a flood. The second is having a pet emergency kit well stocked a ready to go. Your kit should contain the following items, at minimum:
- An extra set of tags for your dog, just in case. You’ll also need to get your dog micro chipped and keep its information current.
- Enough dog food for 4-5 days.
- Multiple doses of any medicines that your dog takes.
- An extra leash and collar.
- A toy or two.
- A photo of your dog in case he gets lost and you don’t have access to your phone.
When you evacuate:
If you need to leave town during a storm, preparing a dog disaster plan well before the waters start to rise is essential to knowing how to keep your dog safe during a flood.
- Leave early! If you wait until you have to be rescued, you might have to leave your dog behind. To avoid this heartbreaking reality, it’s best to be cautious and get out of town as soon as you can.
- Map out multiple routes to safety with dog friendly hotels along the way.
- Speak to a trusted friend or relative about collecting your dog for you if disaster strikes when you’re already away.
- Ensure you doggie emergency kit is accessible and ready to go.
Have a canine Emergency Contact
In today’s busy world, it’s conceivable that you may be out or at work when a flash flood or storm occurs. With that in mind, it’s a great idea to have an emergency contact available for your dog. Possibly a neighbor who can go to your home and pick your dog up in an emergency situation.
During a Flood
Take Shelter in a Safe Place
First things first – Locate a safe place where you and your dog can hunker down during a storm. Roofs, attics, and other high grounds are the best places to look first.
Avoid Drinking Flood Water
This should be obvious, but flood water is severely contaminated. But, a thirsty dog may not understand that. In addition; and depending on the severity of a storm – you may want to avoid tap water. A safe bet is ensuring that you have bottled water in your kit and a small container that you can use to provide your pup with some drinking water.
Cars Aren’t Safe
Before a flood comes, many will jump in the car and try to evacuate. A good idea at that time, but a poor decision if the flood has already begun. Floods can become trapped by flood water and even swept away.
Don’t Tether Your Dogs
Do not tether your dogs outside or inside, as this can be dangerous if a dog is trying to escape flood waters.
Look Out For Lost Dogs
Many dogs that become displaced during floods need your help. If you have the space, take the dog out of danger, check their tags and go to your vet clinic to see if the dog has a microchip. Contact animal control for further steps.
Stay Safe!
Because of their nature, dogs can never be completely prepared for a disaster, but following these steps will get you well on your way. I hope they help you to keep on Enjoying Life With Your Best Friend!
