Remember your Pets in a Weather Event.

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches the East Coast of Australia, it’s crucial for pet owners to remember that their furry, feathered, and hoofed companions rely on them for safety and well-being.

Severe weather events bring heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding, all of which can pose significant risks to pets if they are not properly prepared for. Whether you have dogs, horses, or other pets, now is the time to take proactive steps to ensure their safety.

These type of events can cause confusion and stress to your fur family so be mindful that they need focus as much as your human  family.

Ensure Access to Food and Water

During a cyclone or severe weather event, access to food and clean drinking water can quickly become an issue. Power outages, road closures, and flooding may prevent you from getting supplies for several days. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stock Up on Pet Food and Pet Treats –

Ensure you have at least a week's supply of food and pet treats for your pets. Keep it in an airtight, waterproof container to prevent spoilage.

2. Store Water –

Clean, fresh water is vital. If your usual water source becomes contaminated or cut off, having a backup supply is essential. Store extra water in sealed containers for both you and your animals.

3. Feed for Horses and Livestock –

If you own horses or other large animals, ensure they have access to adequate hay or feed and have an ample supply of Horse Treats on hand as well. Store feed in a dry, elevated area where floodwaters cannot reach.

Provide Secure Shelter

High winds and heavy rains can make outdoor environments extremely dangerous for pets. Make sure you provide them with safe shelter:

• For Dogs and Cats – Keep them indoors or in a secure, enclosed area where they are protected from wind, flying debris, and rising waters.

• For Horses and Livestock – Move them to higher ground if there’s a risk of flooding. If they must stay outside, ensure they are in a safe, enclosed area away from trees, power lines, and unstable structures.

• Small Animals and Birds – Keep cages and enclosures in a secure, covered space indoors to prevent exposure to extreme conditions.

Have an Emergency Evacuation Plan

If evacuation becomes necessary, make sure your pets are included in your plans. Many emergency shelters do not accept animals, so be prepared:

• Identify Pet-Friendly Shelters – Research local emergency centres, vet clinics, or friends and family who can provide a safe place for your animals.
• Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit – Include essentials such as food, water, medications, a leash, a carrier, bedding, and identification.
• Have a Transport Plan for Horses – If you need to evacuate large animals, ensure you have a truck and float ready, or have an agreement with a neighbour or local service that can assist.

Manage Stress

Large weather events can create a lot of stress in both ourselves as well as our pets.  They will even feed off our stress.

The key in this situation is to be prepared and not scared!

Do these things to help manage stress in your pets and animals.... Plus they will help with your stress as well:

• Hug your pets regularly.  It sometimes helps to cover them in a blanket or a rug for added reassurance.

• Speak quietly and softly to your pets regularly.

• Give them dog treats, horse treats and pet treats to manage their stress as chewing can stimulate calming and reassuring behaviour.

Strangely enough, these activities also will help to manage your stress as a human as well! 

Keep Identification and Important Documents Handy

In the chaos of severe weather, pets can easily become lost. Make sure they have:

• Microchip and Collar ID – Ensure your pets have up-to-date identification, including a microchip and a collar with a tag that includes your contact details.
• Medical Records – Have copies of vaccination records, medications, and vet contact details in a waterproof bag.
• Photos of Your Pets – In case they go missing, having recent photos can help with identification and recovery.

Monitor Weather Updates and Stay Alert

Cyclones can change direction and intensity quickly, so it’s important to stay informed:

• Listen to Official Warnings – Keep updated through local weather reports, emergency broadcasts, and official government advisories.

• Act Early – Don’t wait until the last minute to move pets to safety. Take action as soon as warnings are issued.

• Secure Outdoor Areas – Bring in any loose objects that could become projectiles in high winds, and make sure fences, gates, and enclosures are secure.

After the Cyclone: Assess and Protect

Once the storm has passed, dangers may still be present:

• Check for Hazards – Broken glass, fallen trees, and power lines can pose serious risks to pets. Inspect the area before allowing them outside.

• Watch for Stress or Injury – Pets may be disoriented, scared, or even injured after a severe storm. Monitor their behaviour and seek veterinary attention if needed.

• Replenish Supplies – Restock any pet supplies that were used during the emergency to stay prepared for future events.

• Keep Pets Restrained - Do not let your pets and ponies run free until you have assessed all the damage and are aware of the threats.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred serves as a stark reminder that we must not forget our pets when preparing for extreme weather events of all kinds.

Their safety depends on the precautions we take in the lead up to them.

By ensuring they have enough food, water, shelter, and an emergency plan, we can keep them safe and secure no matter what nature throws our way. Stay prepared, stay safe, and don’t leave your pets behind.

All the best from the team at Huds and Toke™.