How to Pack a Hurricane Kit
By Arlo the Hound with help from Honor Tarpenning
The 2009 Atlantic hurricane season has been benign thus far. Since June 1, the start of hurricane season, we’ve only seen 3 named storms. However, with over three months left of hurricane season and hurricane Bill looming (so far a category 4, and expected to gain in strength) it is definitely time to think about your hurricane plans. One thing you must consider when preparing for the possibility of evacuation is how you will care for your pets. If a storm situation is too dangerous for you, it is too dangerous for your dog as well, and thus you must take him with you. The following is a list of supplies you should have at the ready this time of year.
3-5 days-worth of dog food in an airtight container—the trick to not being stuck with stale food: check the expiration date and mark it on your calendar. Before the food expires, remove it from your kit, replace it with new food, and feed your dog the old food before it has a chance to go bad. If you consistently roll over the food in the kit, you will be reminded to check the expiration dates on medications and other items as well so you know your kit will be ready when you need it.
3-5 days-worth of water—this is the water just for your dog, don’t assume that the water you have set aside for you and your family will be sufficient to share. Don’t forget that bottled water expires too.
Any medicine dog is taking—remember to keep expiration dates in mind.
Collapsible food and water containers—they pack better and are lighter than regular bowls.
Your
dog’s medical and vaccination records and copies of
registration information in a sealed plastic bag with
extra ID tags and an ID tag with an out-of-the-area contact in case your dog loses his collar.
An extra sturdy collar and leash—the collar or leash you use on a daily basis could get lost, broken, or chewed, and you don’t want to be left without a way to restrain your dog.
Flashlight—you should have a flashlight (with working batteries, don't forget to check) in every bag you pack. Have you ever tried looking for a flashlight in the dark without a flashlight?
Towels—they can be used as bedding, rolled up to make pillows, torn into strips for tourniquets, bandages or rope, and of course, they’re good for wiping down a muddy pup.
Paper towels, trash bags, dog waste bags, and household chlorine bleach—it is absolutely necessary that you clean up after your pet, especially if you are in a public area.
A list of local vets, vets in surrounding cities, dog-friendly hotels and emergency 24 hour numbers.
A picture of you with your dog—having your picture with your dog is important, it can help you establish ownership if you get separated. On the back of the picture write your pet’s breed, age, sex, color, and distinguishing characteristics.
A few familiar toys and tasty treats—just like for you, something familiar and pleasant in a scary situation can make a big difference.
A portable crate—it should be big enough to allow your dog to stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably. Shelters that do allow dogs are often picky about how they are restrained. Your best bet is brining your dog in a crate.
Grooming items—if you have a short-haired dog like a Beagle or Lab, this isn’t completely necessary, but if you have an Afghan hound or Pekingese, it’s a good idea to have a comb to keep mats from developing in the fur.
A first aid kit including:
Antiseptic, Hand Sanitizer, Alcohol Cleansing Pads, Scissors, Latex Gloves, Cotton Swabs, Gauze Roll, Instant Cold Compress, Gauze Dressing Pads, Self-Adhesive Vet Wrap, Tweezers w/Magnifying Glass, Syringe for dosing medications, Pet Waste Bags, Buffered Aspirin, Generic Benadryl, Hydrocortisone Cream, Splints, Eye Wash, Petroleum Jelly, and Triple Antibiotic Ointment.
Learn more about
Emergencies & Your Dog
Other articles you may also like: