5 Tips for Reaching a Vet During a Hurricane
When a hurricane looms on the horizon, the safety of your entire family, including your furry companions, becomes a top priority. Dealing with a storm can be stressful, but being prepared can ease some of that anxiety, especially when it comes to ensuring your pets continue to receive proper care. Here’s your guide to maintaining access to veterinary support during a hurricane.
Stay Connected to Veterinary Care During Emergencies
- Evacuate to a Safe Location Early
- If you’re under evacuation orders, prioritize moving to a region where veterinary assistance remains accessible. Pets that are elderly, chronically ill, or prone to anxiety can be especially vulnerable during storms.
- Pack essentials like:
- Pet carrier of appropriate size
- Two weeks to one month’s supply of pet food
- Ample waterA basic pet first aid kitCollar with ID, leash, and harness
- Necessary documentation (like vaccination records)
- Medications and a recent photo of your pet (in case they get lost)
- Search for pet-friendly accommodations or check with your local emergency management for designated shelters that accept pets. Inform your regular vet of your plans, and ask for emergency vet contacts in the area to which you’re evacuating. Ensure your pet’s medical records are transferred to any temporary care providers.
- Consult Your Vet Ahead of Taking Shelter
- If you’re sheltering in place, touch base with your vet before the hurricane strikes. Determine the best ways to communicate, as vets commonly employ various methods such as social media, text messaging, or calls to keep in touch during a disaster. Confirm if online access to your pet’s medical records will be available and discuss any telehealth options, including phone or video consultations.
- Utilize TeleVet Services
- No access to your regular vet? No problem. TeleVet services are invaluable during hurricanes, allowing pet owners to consult a vet via text, calls, or video without leaving safety. This can be particularly helpful for managing non-emergency health issues like minor injuries or anxiety. Sign up for a service like PangoVet to ensure quick, professional medical advice is just a click away.
- Keep Connected with Portable Internet Solutions
- Portable satellite WiFi devices are a robust method to stay online during hurricanes. These gadgets provide a reliable internet connection, empowering you to utilize TeleVet services effectively and maintain communication with online platforms for constant updates about your pet’s health.
- Invest in or Rent a Satellite Phone
- For those in areas where the storm might disrupt normal cell service, a satellite phone is a sound investment or rental idea. Companies often offer these phones for temporary lease, providing a surefire way to reach a vet or TeleVet service during critical times.
Facing a hurricane — other another disaster — can be daunting, but proper planning for your pet’s needs can make a significant difference. Establish a straightforward communication plan with your vet, have backups like TeleVet services set up, and know your options for internet and phone connectivity during the storm.
Disaster preparedness isn’t just about making it through the storm—it’s about ensuring the continuous care and wellness of your pet companions during tough times. For more insights into disaster readiness and managing pet care during emergencies, explore further resources on pet safety. Remember, a well-thought-out plan is your best tool against the unpredictability of natural disasters.