Natural disasters, like hurricanes and tornadoes, can strike at any time that's why it's critical to be prepared. These 8 simple, yet important steps will help you in the event of an emergency or if you need to evacuate your home with your cat or dog.
Ensure your pet can be identified by either a microchip or collar ID tag, with updated contact information. - Prepare an emergency box of supplies that is readily available. Emergency kits should include:
- Good, current photo ID of your cat or dog
- First aid supplies & guide book
- 3-day supply of cat or dog food in a waterproof container (be sure to replace food supply to assure it's fresh)
- Bottled water
- 2 bowls for pet food and water
- Safety harness and/or leash
- Waste clean-up supplies
- Medications and medical records (vaccination records)
- Contact list / information of veterinarian and pet care organizations
- Contact information for you (name, phone, address)
- Keep your emergency kit in an area that is easy to access in an emergency, such as a closet by the front door.
- Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a cat or dog in the house. Include your veterinarian's contact information, as well as your own.
- If you need to evacuate, consider taking a pet carrier or crate for transporting your pet and keeping them safe.
- Carry a recent picture of your cat or dog with you in case you are separated.
- Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house because pets may hide if they are scared. Finding them quickly will help you evacuate faster.
- Identify a location that is pet friendly if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people ,may not be able to shelter cats or dogs. It's a good idea to research hotels/motels with pet friendly policies, or ask relatives or friends if you and/or your cat or dog can stay with them
We care about the stress disaster survivors feel when their pets are missing, or when they are struggling to care for them while food and shelter are scarce. To help alleviate some of that stress, Hill's has established a National Disaster Relief Network to help during emergencies. This Disaster Relief Network includes nearly 100 shelters across the U.S. to distribute pet food supplies to those who need it most.
Tasty Tips
While natural disasters can strike at any time, according to the Weather Channel, there are official times that they can occur:
| Hurricane | Tornado | Wild Fires (ie California) |
|---|---|---|
| Hurricanes can form from early May to December in the Caribbean Sea or the Gulf of Mexico. Atlantic hurricane official season is June 1st - November 30th. Eastern North Pacific hurricane official season is May 15th - November 30th. | Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year and anywhere in the world In the SE states, peak tornado season is February – April Northern Plains peak season is June – August South – late winter - early spring Plains, Midwest & Ohio Valley – early spring - summer | While there is no official "Fire Season", it can be considered all year long, especially for California. however the key months are June - August |
By implementing these simple steps, you will be prepared should you and your pets need to react to a disaster.
Related products
Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Related articles
What Nutrients Can Help a Pet’s Immune System?
Learn why nutrients like antioxidants & amino acids can help improve your pet's immune system, as well as top antioxidants to look for in pet food.
Predictive Biology: The Science Behind Our Pet Food
Learn how the science of predictive biology plays a role in formulating your pet's food to interact and work with your pet's biological process.
Understanding Sustainable Pet Food: How Your Pet's Food Impacts the Environment
Concerned about your pet's environmental impact? Learn how sustainable pet food can help you care for the planet without compromising pet nutrition.
The Incredible Science Behind Your Pet's Microbiome
Learn what a pet's microbiome is, how it contributes to your pet's gut & overall health, and why nutrition is important in maintaining healthy microbiomes.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.