In Oklahoma, tornadoes are a fact of life for many families. Each year, people in our state prepare for severe storms by creating safety plans, stocking up on supplies, and knowing where to take shelter. In all the planning, though, pets are sometimes overlooked. During a tornado or any home emergency (like a house fire), pets face the same dangers as people, and they rely on us to keep them safe. Cedar Ridge Veterinary Hospital is here to help pet owners in the Carney, OK area prepare a disaster plan that includes every member of your family, furry ones included.
Tornado Preparedness for Pets
When a storm siren sounds or you get an alert on your phone, you may only have minutes to act. Pets can panic at the sound of high winds, thunder, and sirens, making it difficult to gather them quickly. By planning ahead, you reduce the risk of leaving your pet behind in the rush to find safety. Tornado preparedness for pets can be the difference between a safe reunion and a heartbreaking separation.
Steps to Prepare Your Pet for Tornadoes
1. Create a Safe Shelter Space
Identify a storm-safe location in your home. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate both your family and pets. Keep leashes, carriers, and comfort items nearby so pets can be brought in quickly. Also, be sure to remove any items that may be hazardous to your pet before bringing them inside.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit for Each Pet
An emergency kit for pets should include:
- 7+ days’ worth of food and bottled water
- A food dish and water bowl
- Medications and veterinary records in a waterproof container
- Leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers
- Comfort items such as blankets and toys
- Sanitation supplies like waste bags or litter
- A pet first aid kit
3. Practice Your Tornado Drill with Pets
Just like children need to practice tornado drills, pets benefit from it, too. Take your pets to the safe room occasionally so they become familiar with it. This can reduce some of the stress when a real storm occurs.
4. Make Sure Your Pet Has Proper Identification
If pets get separated during a tornado, identification increases the chances of a reunion. Make sure your pet wears a secure collar with an ID tag and consider microchipping for permanent identification. Keep recent photos on hand in case you need to prove ownership.
5. Know Where You’ll Go if You Must Evacuate
Some tornado situations may require leaving home. Research pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or boarding facilities ahead of time. Having a plan avoids scrambling in the aftermath.
Additional Tips for Pets with Storm Anxiety
Tornado season often comes with thunder, lightning, and sirens, all of which can increase stress in pets. To help manage your pet’s anxiety, provide a safe, quiet place for your pet during storms. Bring them familiar blankets, toys, or calming sprays. Staying calm yourself can also be a huge help to your animal companion. Many pets take cues from their owners’ behavior. If you need assistance in coming up with a plan for your pet, contact a veterinarian for expert guidance.
Veterinary Care for Pets in Carney, OK
Tornadoes may be unpredictable, but your pet’s safety doesn’t have to be. By creating a plan and preparing a kit, you can increase the chances of your pet’s safety when severe weather strikes. Cedar Ridge Veterinary Hospital supports pet owners with veterinary care in Carney, OK and mobile vet care for areas like Perkins and Chandler. Preparing today could make all the difference tomorrow. Contact us to get your pet up-to-date on their medical care and ready for every kind of season.