Summer is time for crazy weather here in Georgia. Hurricanes, although not as big a threat as on the coast, can have some devastating effects. Tornadoes are another weather phenomenon here in Georgia. So we need to be prepared.
Dogs get scared in bad storms and can run much farther than you would think, we had a greyhound go about three miles. Make sure your dogs are secure and in a place where they feel as safe as possible, like a bathroom. If you know bad weather is coming take them out before the thunder is crashing over your house. These precautions also apply to anytime there might be fireworks. Do not reward exhibitions of fearful behavior.
If you have a storm shelter or basement where you and your family go to wait out really bad storms. Have a crate with a bed in it already in place and take your dog into the shelter and get him used to the space and crate there. Make sure you have food in a sealed container as well as water.
Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the chip is registered with current information. Get either a tag or name plate for your dog’s collar that has your name and phone number on it. Have pictures on hand of your dog from different angles to use for posters or social media posts. Make sure you have the names and phone numbers of the local veterinarian easily accessible.
When listing your contact information including the name and phone number of someone outside the affected area. Let this contact person know what your plans are for your pets and that you are giving out their information.
Make sure your pets are up to date on all their vaccinations and have extra medicine on hand in a water-tight container. Have a copy of your pet’s records from your vet with a current picture of your pet that shows their markings.
Each dog should have their own crate that is clearly marked with all vital information. If you plan to evacuate ask yourself if you will be able to take all your pets with you. If not what is your plan? Plan on where you will go so that you can take your pets, as we know not everywhere will take pets.
Make sure you have enough food and water for at least a week. Food will need to be in a water-tight container that will be safe from rodents as well as water. If you are going to have to leave your pets how will they access the food and water?
You should have an emergency first aid kit for your pets.
3M Steri-Strip Skin Closures for small cuts, Ever Ready First Aid Universal Aluminum Splint, Celox Traumatic Wound Treatment to stop bleeding, 4″x4″ Water Jel Burn Dressing, Benedryl antihistamine, Neosporin antibiotic ointment, Imodium for diarrhea
Small Glass Water Tight Containers filled with 4 x 4 gauze pads and chlorohexidine diluted 50% with water for disinfecting wounds
Dynarex Instant Cold Packs for swelling, Dogzymes Canine Electrolyte Paste helps replace fluids lost from Dehydration, Diarrhea, Vomiting
6″x4″ Gauze Rolls wrap a wound, VetBond Tissue Adhesive glue small wound, Tech Niche International Evaporative Cooling Dog Pad cool down, 2″ Co-Flex Bandage (Blue), Digital Thermometer, Stethoscope, Surgical Skin Stapler staple shut larger wounds,
Nitrile Powder Free Gloves, Bandage Scissors, Vetericyn Plus All Animal Eye Wash flush eyes, Universal Antidote Gel contains activated charcoal for emergency treatment of poisoning