A recent rash of wild weather across America has brought several questions to many families’ minds. While most people worry about their homes and family members, what do you do with your pets in the event of a disaster or emergency? Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital has tips for you to exercise good pet care in these harrowing events, so that your whole family stays safe in case of an emergency.

First and foremost: If you have to leave your home, take your pet with you at all costs. Don’t wait on someone else to act. Grab your pet and anything that is most urgent to their survival, such as food. Remember that if your current situation is dangerous for your family, it’s dangerous for your pet as well. Don’t expect that they’ll know to follow you out of your house!

If you have to camp out in a hotel, make sure you know where to find pet-friendly accommodations. If no nearby hotels like pets, check with other family members or friends to see if they can host you and your pet until the emergency situation subsides. Regardless of how far you must travel, your pet will have to go into a crate. Get them used to a crate before it’s necessary. Familiar surroundings are important for pets, as they will feel less anxious regardless of their situation. Being proactive will help you save time when you need to act fast.

After the emergency, make sure you are careful with your pet. A tense situation will cause your pet to exhibit strange characteristics, such as extreme behavior, shyness, or high aggressiveness. Show your pet care and understanding in the weeks after an emergency, and let it take its time in familiarizing itself with a new situation.

The American Veterinary Medical Association has detailed instructions on caring for your pet following an emergency. These instructions cater to several different types of pets, such as dogs, cats, birds, snakes, horses, and rodents. Familiarize yourself with these instructions so that you’re informed of what to do for your pet before, during, and after an emergency.

Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital wants your pets to stay safe at any time of day. Whether it’s an emergency or a checkup, the veterinarians exercise the greatest care in helping your pets, and always stay up to date with the best practices in pet health. Call Waipahu’s premier pet hospital today at (808) 671-7387 to make an appointment.