In Miami, hurricane season is part of life. While families stock up on supplies and secure their homes, it’s important not to forget about the needs of pets. Preparing your pets for hurricanes requires food and water, sure, but veterinary care also plays a critical role in keeping them safe and healthy before, during, and after the storm. Miami Pet Clinic assists pet owners in building strong hurricane preparedness plans with veterinary support at the core.
Veterinary Care As a Part of Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricanes can cause sudden evacuations, extended power outages, and limited access to veterinary clinics. If your pet isn’t already healthy and up to date on care, medical emergencies become much harder to manage. By working with your veterinarian before hurricane season, you can prevent problems and ensure your pet is protected when storms strike.
Veterinarians Get Pets Hurricane Ready
Routine Wellness Exams
Annual checkups are an important first step in preparedness. These visits confirm your pet is in good health and ready to handle the stress of a hurricane or evacuation. During an exam, your veterinarian can also make recommendations for emergency planning based on your pet’s age and medical history.
Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention
Many emergency shelters and boarding facilities require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Without them, your pet may be denied entry. Preventive care, such as flea, tick, and heartworm protection, is also a good idea, especially in warm, humid environments like Miami, where parasites thrive after heavy rain and flooding.
Microchipping and Identification
Storms often cause pets to panic and run. Collars and tags are helpful, but they can fall off. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that significantly increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if you are separated during a hurricane. Veterinarians can quickly microchip your pet during a routine visit.
Medications and Special Needs
If your pet requires daily medication, ask your veterinarian if they would prescribe a few extra doses before hurricane season begins. Pets with chronic conditions, anxiety, or mobility issues may also need customized plans to keep them safe during an evacuation. Having these details sorted out in advance can prevent emergencies during already stressful situations.
Emergency Kits and Travel Readiness
Veterinarians can guide you on what to include in your pet’s hurricane kit, from food to first aid supplies. Practicing an evacuation with carriers, leashes, or travel harnesses is a great idea so that pets are comfortable and secure if you need to leave in a hurry.
After the Storm
The risks don’t end once the storm passes. Floodwater, debris, spoiled food, and downed power lines create dangers for curious pets. Injuries, stress-related behaviors, and parasite exposure are common after hurricanes. Having a trusted veterinary clinic available means your pet can get the care they need to recover from the physical and emotional effects of a storm.
Veterinary Care Ahead of Hurricanes in Miami, FL
Hurricane preparedness isn’t complete without veterinary care. Veterinarians play a role in keeping pets safe before, during, and after hurricanes. Miami Pet Clinic supports Miami families through every hurricane season with compassionate veterinary care for pets in Miami from areas like Little Havana, Coral Groves, and Allapattah. Together, we can make sure your pets are ready to weather any storm. Request an appointment to schedule a wellness exam, update vaccines, or get your pet microchipped before the next storm.