Hurricane season 2025: How to prepare your pets
The Brief
Plan ahead to know what to do with your pets in case of an emergency
Familiarize yourself with available resources: lodgings and community
Create an emergency kit for your pets to have all their necessities ahead of time
HOUSTON - June is Pet Preparedness Month, and as hurricane season begins, it’s important to have a plan to keep your pets safe during severe weather.
FEMA, the Houston Humane Society, and the SPCA offer resources to ensure your pet’s safety during the hurricane season.
Finding a pet-friendly shelter
When planning for evacuations, finding pet-friendly lodging is crucial for your pets before disasters. Be aware, not all shelters allow household pets due to health and safety concerns, with the exception of service animals. The American Red Cross does not accept pets at most of their locations.
Pet-friendly lodgings
These hotels accept pets at some or all locations.
America’s Best Value Inn
Best Western
Econo Lodge
Kimpton Group Hotels
La Quinta Inn & Suites
Marriott
Motel 6
Radisson
Red Roof Inn
Prioritizing Pet Healthcare
What you can do:
It’s important to have up-to-date medical records. Throughout hurricane season, the Houston Humane Society offers discounted vaccine and microchip packages for your pets. Having your pets microchipped helps ensure you can be reunited in case of emergencies.
During severe weather, pet anxiety is completely normal, which makes planning important to relieve stress. Being aware of options can bring you peace of mind later on.
Basic Pet Emergency Kit
Food - store several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container
Water - keep several days’ supply of water
Medicine and medical records - have your pet’s medicine on hand in a waterproof container, and up-to-date medical records or vaccinations.
First aid kit - include items like bandages, cotton balls, scissors, and tweezers; antibiotic ointment and saline solutions.
ID Tag - collar or harness with ID tag with your contact information
Crate and pet carrier - having a sturdy, safe crate or carrier for your pet
Sanitation - pet litter and litter box if needed, paper towels, wipes, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach
Familiar items - your pet’s favorite toys, treats, or bedding to relieve stress and anxiety
Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional advice and information if you’re unsure of how to care for your pets in case of an emergency.
The Source: The information in this article comes from FEMA, American Red Cross, SPCA, and Houston Humane Society.
