The National Hurricane Center at the National Weather Service reports that the Atlantic Hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November 30. Learn more here. Analysts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predict 19 named storms this season. 10 of those could become hurricanes.

“Families often dash to the store when the news reports a hurricane, collecting necessities moments before the arrival of a hurricane,” said Dr. Christian Broadhurst, senior staff veterinarian at Clay Humane. “In this rush, they may not get the opportunity to completely prepare for their dog or cat’s needs. This is particularly hard for families with birds, reptiles, fish and other pets with unique needs.”

Clay Humane advises animal owners to plan for the dangers associated with hurricane season.

ClayHumane recommends the following preparedness tips:

• Keep Pets' Tags Updated
  Keep your animal’s identification tags updated with your contact information. The tag should consist of your pet’s name, your phone number and address.
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• Microchip Animals
  Pets are at risk of becoming separated from their families during or after a natural disaster. Out of stress or fear, they may run away or hide in unfamiliar places. Microchips contain a unique number that can be read by a scanner. The chip is inserted under the animal’s skin and can assist with locating lost pets. Be sure to register your pet’s microchip number with your veterinarian’s office and the microchip company. Ensure the information is up-to-date.

• Secure the Right Travel Gear
  Prepare a pet carrier before a storm hits. Select a spacious carrier that provides your pet with ample room to move in the event of prolonged evacuation drives. Label the carrier with your pet’s name and your name. To safely transport birds, bring a perch and paper towels for easy sanitizing. Also bring a timed feeder to ensure your bird receives timely meals.

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Build a disaster kit and include the following things to build an emergency kit for your pets

• Animal first-aid kit
• Four-day supply of pet food and medications
• Water
• Food and water bowls
• Litter and / or disposable garbage bags for pet waste
• Spare collars, leashes and harnesses
• Copies of your pet’s medical records
• Pictures of your animal in the event you become separated
• For birds, carry a spray bottle with water for their wings. Carry a strong bowl for reptiles to soak in and ample bedding for small pets like guinea pigs or hamsters.

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Know where to go

Some local evacuation shelters allow pets, but some do not. Know where you and your pets can go in the event you need to evacuate. For more information about pet-friendly shelters in your area and types of pets permitted visit:

• Clay County Disaster Preparedness
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• Jacksonville Pet Emergencies
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• St. Johns County Hurricane Evacuation Shelter Locations
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• Nassau County Pet-Friendly Disaster Evacuation Shelters

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Study evacuation routes

Get familiar with your evacuation routes and try to memorize them, as your GPS may not work well as a storm approaches or leaves. If you cannot find a shelter nearby, find boarding facilities outside of the evacuation area.

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