TORNADO PREPARATIONS

Tornado Season Precautions

 

Tornado Season started March 1st. Now is the time to prepare yourself and your pet.   

 

• Microchip your pet. If you have already microchipped your pet make sure that all your information is current with the microchip company. Information can generally be updated on the Microchip company website. Thunderbird Veterinary Hospital uses PetLink brand microchips. 

• If your pet is not microchipped, you can have ID tags made and attached to their collar. They come in a variety of shapes and colors. Generally enough space is provided for a name or short message and phone number. ID tags are available in many locations including our office. Please inquire at the front desk.  

• Rabies tags should be attached to your pet(s)' collar at all times. They not only inform people that your pet has been vaccinated but have a unique identification number and contact information for the clinic or hospital that provided the vaccination. As long as your contact information is current they can help reunite pets with their owners.  

• Ensure that your chosen shelter allows pets before you need to use it.  

• Keep a no slip leash or transport carrier in an easy to access location for a quick evacuation or to safely secure your pet.  

• Pack a small amount of dry or canned food and some extra water for your pet to store in your shelter or go bag as well as any medications your pet is currently taking. 

• Have a current picture of your pet in your phone, on your person, or in your go bag in case they do get lost. 

• Crate or leash train your pets as soon as possible. A well behaved pet is a safer pet and more likely to be accepted in a public shelter if you need to use one. 

• Have a plan in place for what to do in an emergency and practice your plan to help ease anxiety.

• Keep informed about local weather conditions, through tv, radio, and weather apps. Make sure your electronics remain charged or you have a back up charger in case of a power outage. 

 

If your pet is lost during a severe storm: 

• Check local shelters. It is best to do this in person and remember that your pet may not be their usual self. They are often dirty, matted, and scared. Check any description that could possibly resemble your pet.

• Post fliers in the local vicinity with a current picture and contact information.

• Post articles on facebook and join lost and found pet groups in your area and across the state. Pets can travel pretty far when scared.