Prepare your pet for hurricane season: 5 Tips from a veterinarian
Tampa, FL (BLOOM) – Batten down the hatches, pet parents! With the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting an above-normal hurricane season, including up to seven major hurricanes, it’s time to think about more than just your emergency snacks and Netflix downloads. Our furry friends need to be storm-ready too, and who better to help us prepare than our trusty veterinarians?
Dr. Anthony Coronado, Vice President of Emergency Medicine at Thrive Pet Healthcare, reminds us that “No matter how many hurricanes are predicted this season, it only takes one storm to cause a disruption in your household. Pets are equally impacted by these disruptions and depend on their humans to protect them.” With over 380 locations across 37 states, Thrive Pet Healthcare is at the forefront of pet safety, and they’ve compiled a list of the top five ways your vet can help you get ready for the stormy season.
Vaccines – Ensure your pets are up-to-date on their vaccines, especially the biggies like rabies and leptospirosis. If you end up needing to use shelters, kennels, or even pet-friendly hotels, vaccination records might be required. Think of it as your pet’s passport to safety.
Heartworm Preventatives – Post-hurricane, mosquitoes are like party crashers, and they bring heartworm disease as a gift. Keeping your pets on a routine heartworm preventative is crucial. Stock up to avoid any supply hiccups during the season.
Flea and Tick Protection – Fleas and ticks are the freeloaders who move in after a storm. Protect your pets with veterinarian-prescribed preventatives to avoid these pesky and sometimes dangerous guests.
Medications – If your pet is on prescription meds, make sure you have enough to last through any disruptions. Ask your vet for an extra supply just in case you need to make a quick exit and supplies are short.
Microchipping – Hurricanes can be scary, and scared pets might make a break for it. Microchipping your pet ensures that if they get lost, there’s a much better chance of a happy reunion. It’s quick, easy, and could be a lifesaver.
Additionally, don’t forget the basics: collars and tags with up-to-date info, and consider a tracking device, though be mindful that some may not work well during power or service outages.
Investing in Your Pet’s Health and Your Wallet
Hurricane prep can feel like a storm in your wallet too, but Thrive Pet Healthcare offers the Thrive Plus™ membership to make things easier. For just $14.95 a month, you get unlimited free exams, $5 nail trims, and a 10% discount on services like diagnostic testing and dental cleanings. That’s a lot of bang for your buck and peace of mind during hurricane season.
Dr. Coronado advises, “Consider adding a tracking device to your pet’s collar alongside an ID tag to aid with recovery if your pet gets lost. Many choices are available, but remember that some trackers might not be as dependable during storm outages if they rely on cellphone signals, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.”
So, as you’re stocking up on bottled water and batteries, don’t forget about your four-legged family members. A little preparation now can save a lot of heartache later. For more tips and to find a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, visit ThrivePetCare.com.
Stay safe, stay dry, and keep those tails wagging!
About Thrive Pet Healthcare: Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service network offering a continuum of care to pet families. With over 350 providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare ensures pets receive personalized, accessible care through every stage of life. Learn more at thrivepetcare.com.
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