With Cyclone Alfred soon expected to make landfall, it’s crucial to take steps now to keep your pets safe and secure during the wild weather. Cyclones can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous conditions, and your pets may need special care to weather the storm safely. Here are some important tips to ensure your furry, scaly, or feathered friends are protected during this extreme weather event.
1. Ensure Your Pet’s Microchip Details Are Up to Date
If your pet gets scared and manages to escape, having an up-to-date microchip registration could be a lifesaver. Veterinary clinics can reunite you with your pet if they are found and scanned for a microchip. Make sure your contact details are correct, so you can be reached if your pet gets lost.
2. Check Your Pet’s Medication Supply
If your pet is on any long-term medication, take stock of your supplies. Ensure you have enough to last through the storm, and don’t hesitate to call your vet today if you need a refill. Cyclones can disrupt services, so it’s better to be prepared in advance rather than risk running out during the storm.
3. Keep Your Pets Inside (Including Cats)
While it’s tempting to let outdoor cats roam, it’s essential to keep all pets indoors during a cyclone. Strong winds and flying debris pose significant risks to animals left outside. Cats, in particular, can become disoriented and scared, making them more vulnerable to injury. Keep your pets in a safe, sheltered space until the storm passes.
4. Create a Safe and Secure Space for Your Pets
Create a designated area inside your home where your pets can retreat during the storm. This safe space should be away from windows and sheltered from drafts, loud noises, and flying debris. A quiet room or a hallway with minimal exposure to the outside is ideal. Make sure it’s comfortable with their favorite bedding or toys to help them feel at ease.
5. Monitor Their Behavior and Comfort Them
Pets can become anxious and scared during storms and disasters. Their instincts may cause them to act out or retreat. It’s important to recognize signs of stress in pets, which may include:
- Excessive barking, meowing, or whining
- Hiding or trying to escape
- Pacing or destructive behavior
- Drooling or panting heavily
To help your pet through the stress of a storm or natural disaster, try the following:
- Stay Calm: Pets can sense their owners’ anxiety, so staying calm will help reassure them. Speak softly and comfortingly to them.
- Provide Distractions: Offer them their favorite toys, snacks, or a chew item to help distract them from the storm’s noise.
- Stay Close: Sometimes just being there with them can offer reassurance. If your pet is especially frightened, let them sit with you, or create a safe, quiet space where they can feel secure.
6. Act Early if You Need to Move Your Pets
If you need to move animals to a safer place during the cyclone, don’t wait until the last minute. Procrastinating could put you and your pets at unnecessary risk. Act early to relocate them safely, and make sure you have everything you need to keep them comfortable and secure during the storm.
7. Have an Emergency Action Plan
It’s essential to have a plan in place before the cyclone hits. Know where to take your pets if you need to evacuate, and have an emergency kit prepared with pet food, medications, bedding, and any other essential supplies. Make sure your pets are familiar with carriers or crates, so they feel secure if you need to transport them quickly.
For more tips on how to keep your pets safe during cyclones, visit the RSPCA QLD website, where you can find further resources and information.
Conclusion
Cyclones can be a terrifying experience for both you and your pets. By taking these simple steps to prepare your pets, you can reduce stress and keep them safe during the storm. Make sure your pets are secure, comfortable, and cared for throughout the event, and always prioritize their safety above all else. Stay safe, and don’t forget to check your supplies and plan ahead!
Stay safe, stay informed, and take care of your furry (and feathered) family members during Cyclone Alfred.