How to Keep Your Dog Safe During a Hurricane

Posted by Billy Francis

Characterized by strong winds of 74 mph or above, heavy rain and destructive force, hurricanes are swirling cyclones that form in the ocean. The phenomenon occurs when warm air from the surface rises and meets cooler air, causing vapor to condense and form rainstorms. The most commonly affected areas by hurricanes in the U.S. are the East Coast and Gulf Coast, thanks in part to the warm water and air in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea during the summer. The Atlantic Hurricane Season lasts from June 1 to November 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), four to eight storms could become hurricanes in 2019, with two to four of these predicted to become major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher.

Beyond the Plan

According to a study by the Fritz Institute, approximately 44% of people who refused to evacuate during Hurricane Katrina did so because they didn’t want to leave their pets behind. In the wake of Katrina and the largest animal rescue operation in U.S history, an estimate of 15,500 pets were saved. As a direct consequence of the storm’s effect on our furry friends, the Senate passed the Pet Evacuation & Transportation Standards (PETS) Act. Prior to the act, FEMA was not required to rescue, shelter and care for people with pets during a disaster. The new laws wouldn’t just protect animals, but also their loyal owners. Despite the heroic efforts of rescuers during Hurricane Katrina, the Louisiana SPCA reported that tens of thousands of pets died throughout the Gulf Coast because of the storm. Many of these lives could have been saved if pet owners had a proper plan in place.

Unlike other natural disasters, the nature of a hurricane allows some time for planning an evacuation. Satellite tracking helps you stay up to date with the path of the storm and make sure you know how it could affect you. Making smart use of this early warning, even if it’s just a day or two, can be critical in helping you and your loved ones reach safety before disaster strikes. Stock up on extra gas by buying and filling up containers specifically labeled for gasoline storage. Invest in waterproof containers and bags that you can use to store food (human and pet), critical documents and other perishables. And keep a supply of battery-powered devices on hand (with the batteries to run them), including flashlights and a radio.

Don’t Forget F.I.D.O.

BringFido, the world’s leading pet travel and lifestyle brand, has developed a four-step checklist to help keep your furry friends safe and by your side during a disaster or major emergency. Before it’s too late, remember to F.I.D.O.!

Standing By

BringFido stands ready to assist you during any emergency evacuation. Our Canine Concierges have secured thousands of hotels, vacation rentals and shelters for evacuees, while offering essential advice on how best to navigate these highly stressful times. Visit our website or mobile app, like this traveler who left a review of BringFido, where you can browse and book more than 250,000 hotels and vacation rentals around the country. Or, call us and let us do the legwork for you. Our Canine Concierge team contacts the hotel to confirm the assignment of a pet-friendly room and can even help with any exceptions or special requests that you may have.

Remember that when you book with BringFido, you enjoy the benefit of our Pet Friendly Guarantee, and you’ll never pay a booking fee. Call us at 877-411-3436 to speak to one of our friendly agents, or save some time and book online. Either way, our service is free.

The animal members of our family turn to us for safety and protection during natural disasters. Taking the time to prepare could be the difference between tragedy and a silver lining. Follow the four steps of F.I.D.O. and check in with #fidosafe to let us know you’re safe.

Are you and your pet prepared to act in the event of a hurricane? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!