Hurricane Prep for Your Pets: Don’t Forget Your Fur Babies This Season!

by Amanda Geller

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and while you're busy prepping your home and family, don’t forget about your four-legged companions! Pets rely on us to keep them safe, so we’ve put together a must-have emergency checklist just for them.

Whether you’re sheltering in place or evacuating, these tips will help ensure your pets are protected, calm, and cared for — no matter the weather.

✅ Pet Emergency Kit Essentials

Here’s what to pack for each pet:

🥫 Food & Water

At least 2 weeks’ worth of food in airtight, waterproof containers
2 weeks of water per pet
Manual can opener (if using canned food)
Non-spill food & water bowls
Written feeding instructions (in case someone else needs to care for them)

💊 Medications & Health Records

2-week supply of all medications + written prescriptions
1-month supply of flea, tick & heartworm preventatives
Vet records, rabies certificate, and vaccination proof
Microchip number (make sure it’s registered and working)
ID tags with up-to-date contact info on collars

📦 Other Must-Haves

Leash, harness, and favorite toys
Litter box and litter (for cats)
Sturdy carrier or crate — big enough for bedding, food & water
Blankets, towels, paper towels, and trash bags
Pet-safe disinfectant
Pet first aid kit & pet first aid reference book

🏥 Know Where to Go: Pet-Friendly Shelters in St. Lucie County

Planning ahead is key! If you ever need to evacuate, not all shelters accept pets, so be sure to pre-register and know your options.

📍 Local Pet-Friendly Shelters:

Fort Pierce Westwood Academy
Treasure Coast High School

🔗 Pre-register your pet for sheltering here

👥 Assign a Pet Caregiver

In a shelter or emergency, you may not be able to stay with your pet the whole time. Assign someone to help walk, feed, and administer medications during your stay.