With Hurricane Dorian bearing down on the southeast coast of the United States, please remember to make your pets part of your evacuation plan.  NEVER leave your pets behind!   If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pets either.  Here is a checklist of items to keep your pet safe and comfortable:

  1. Food. At least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.
  2. Water. At least three days of water specifically for your pets.
  3. Medicines and medical records.
  4. Important documents. Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.
  5. First aid kit. Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Including a pet first aid reference book is a good idea too.
  6. Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash.  Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification information. Your pet’s ID tag should contain his/her name, telephone number and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to also write your pet’s name, your name and contact information on your pet’s carrier.
  7. Crate or pet carrier. Have a sturdy, safe crate or carrier in case you need to evacuate. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.
  8. Sanitation. Pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach.
  9. A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you. Add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.
  10. Familiar items. Familiar items, such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.


If you cannot evacuate but don’t feel safe in your home, contact your local county administration for a list of pet friendly shelters in your area.  If you cannot locate a pet friendly shelter, consider the following:

  1. Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities.
  2. Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets.
  3. Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.
  4. Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.


Get a Rescue Alert Sticker and place it on or near your front door.  If you evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write “EVACUATED” across the sticker.  Your local pet supply store sells these stickers.

More hurricane evacuation information can be found here


BE SAFE!