These 5 Steps Could Save Your Pet During a Hurricane

Louisiana's weather is never dull, and when hurricane season arrives, it seems to be less predictable than usual. You might have things prepped for your family for hurricane season, but what about your pet? They are not just a pet; they are family too.

With the history of severe storms over the past two decades, numerous stories have emerged of animals being stranded or surrounded before a storm hits the area. It's sad.

A little bit of simple prep can make life so much easier for your family and your pet.

Photo by Chris Hondros/Getty Images

It wasn't until Hurricane Katrina in 2005 that much more thought was given to what happens to pets when their owners have to evacuate. Now, some shelters offer space for animals, but it's always a good idea to plan.

Obviously, if you can afford a hotel or motel stay that allows pets, you are in good shape, but many people in Louisiana may not be able to afford it financially.

Get our free mobile app

Make Sure You Have Access To A Shelter That Allows Pets

Preparing ahead of time is an excellent idea so you don't have to go into panic mode wondering where you might be able to stay that also allows your pets. Typically, some shelters accommodate people and pets.

You need to know where those shelters are located and what items they require you to bring. Again, you don't want to have to scramble when a storm is approaching and you need to evacuate.

Not every American Red Cross shelter allows pets, so it's always a good idea to check. For Hurricane Francine, pets were allowed:

The Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in Louisiana even has tips on what you should do.

One of the biggest suggestions about taking your pets to a shelter,

Monitor local parish office of emergency preparedness, animal shelter or animal control office to get advice and information.

You can visit GOHSEP's website to find additional suggestions from them.

Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

Louisiana Weather Disasters Are A Huge Reason You Should Chip Your Pet

The cost of microchipping your pet has decreased significantly over the last decade. There are also local organizations that hold clinics that offer microchipping at a reduced rate.

The benefits of a microchip are endless. It's a straightforward process for pets now, and it's virtually painless according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

As pet lovers, no one wants to think about losing track of their pets, but in the chaos of a storm, it is always possible! Our pets are scared; they won't be familiar with the new setting, and mistakes can happen.

When your fur friend is lost, anyone can take them to a vet, and you can be reunited when they are found.

Louisiana Residents Must Have A Plan

There have been numerous sad stories over the years of people who failed to care for their pets during a disaster properly.

People, out of pure panic, have left their animals tied up at home and evacuated during a storm.

Now, a Louisiana law forbids people from abandoning their pets during disasters. The law, RS 3:2362, spells out what pet parents must know.

Louisiana Pet Owners Need Records

Suppose you are relocating to another location during an approaching storm, especially to a shelter. In that case, you will need to prove that your pet is up to date on all their vaccinations, according to the Lafayette Consolidated Government.

According to LCG's website, it's also important to remember to have a collar for your pet, along with all the necessary items they need to stay fed, clean, and comfortable.

When evacuating with your pet, it is recommended that you bring at least a five-day supply of your pet's essentials.

Prepare A "To-Go" Bag Ahead Of Time For Your Pet

While nothing is going on with a storm, that's the perfect time to prepare a "To-Go" bag for your pet. If you prepare this ahead of time, it's one less thing to worry about when a storm is approaching.

Putting aside the essentials now for the health and safety of your pet helps to ensure that you won't forget something important when a hurricane is headed our way.