Prepping Your Pets For Isaac - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

Wherever Isaac makes landfall, it's important to prepare. It's also important not to forget about furry family members either, but when it comes to prepping pets for a storm, just thing of them as you already do- as family.

"You have these dogs and cats that are members of your family, and we treat them as such- we're used to treating them that way," says Forest Park Animal Hospital Veterinarian Stephen Favaloro. "If we have to evacuate, and we have to take them with us, we want to make sure they're provided the same comforts that are possible just as we would want for ourselves."

If you must evacuate, it's important to remember the necessities to keep your pet happy and comfortable. But most importantly, you need to remember any vaccination records, any medications your pet may be taking, and a photo ID of you and your pet, because in case they get lost, this will help you reunite with them.

"Very important in case you have to leave and can't take your pets, as unfortunate as that may be, or they get separated from you during the storm," says Doctor Favaloro. "I think people leave and they'll forget their vaccination records, and say gosh, you know, my dog's on medicines and I don't have enough- I only have 3 or 4 days left. You find yourself in a position where your pet's health could actually be in danger."

Favaloro suggests bringing food and water for up to seven days for your pet, and if you plan on staying at a hotel, make sure the hotel accommodates the type of pet you own. He added that many animals struggle with anxiety, especially in unfamiliar situations.

"A lot of these dogs and cats really have a tough time with a lot of the noise, a lot of the wind," says Doctor Favaloro. "They can be damaging to themselves, they're really nervous. That's stressful not only to the pet, but to the owner as well."

Just as a pet provides comfort for their owner, during a storm, it's the owners turn to repay the favor. Doctor Favaloro adds that if your pet is micro chipped, make sure it's activated, and also make sure your pet has some other type of identification, such as a collar.