It doesn’t matter in what part of the globe you live; tornados happen year-round. From the icy white water spouts to the yearly ones that reinforce the Midwest’s reputation as ‘Tornado Alley,’ these forces of nature can pose considerable risk to you and your pets. But with cognizance and a plan, you and your pets can make it through this natural disaster unscathed.
The average lead-time, the time before a tornado is predicted to arrive in your location, is 13 minutes. This short notice, even with modern meteorology, isn’t much time at all to get yourself and your beloved pet into a storm shelter. Knowing four key severe weather phrases is one step to having a tornado-ready plan in place.
– Severe thunderstorm watch: This means conditions are prime for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing large hail and damaging winds. It is safe to go about your daily activities but is highly recommended to monitor local radio and TV stations for updates and warnings.
– Severe thunderstorm warning: A severe thunderstorm is occurring in your area.
– Tornado watch: The conditions are in place for the formation of supercell thunderstorms, capable of producing a tornado.
– Tornado warning: A tornado has been spotted by a trained spotter or local law enforcement or has been detected by radar. Take cover immediately.
Before the skies darken, make sure your pet is properly identified with a collar, up-to-date identification tags and a microchip. Remember to update your contact information for the microchip registry at least once each year. Collars and tags can come off a pet during a disaster — or anytime — but microchips are routinely scanned by animal shelters and rescue groups, giving them a way to contact you in the event of a separation.
Also, make sure all vaccinations are kept as up-to-date as possible so you don’t run the risk of your pet facing additional safety and health hazards. In the event of a separation, your pet could be exposed to any number of diseases and conditions preventable by current vaccinations. Having current medical records and photos of your pet on hand is also a good idea as this information can be shared with shelters and other agencies who may find your pet.
During calm weather, practice getting everyone, including your pets, to the tornado safe area you will use. Train your pet to come to you on command regardless of distractions. If you have a cat, learn how to quickly and safely secure him in case of a tornado. Bring all pets indoors well before the storm arrives; never leave pets tied up outside. They should be provided the same shelter and safe spaces as you during severe weather.
Animals have a weather radar we aren’t blessed with and will look for a place to hide if they sense severe weather is near. Know your pet’s hiding places, indoors or out, and how to quickly and safely get him to shelter should the need arise.
Put together a pet-focused emergency kit for use after a tornado. This kit should include:
– Collars, leashes and carriers
– A minimum of two weeks’ worth of pet food and bottled water. As with human food, pet food does expire, so make sure to check expiration dates and rotate the supply during the year. Also have extra bowls and can openers for use.
– Blankets, towels, treats and toys. In high anxiety and stress situations, such as the days following a tornado, a few reminders of normalcy can benefit your pet and you.
– First aid kit. The kit should have medications, anti-bacterial ointments, bandages, adhesive tape, sterile wound wash and other medical supplies needed for helping an injured pet.
Keep your pet on a leash for the first few hours following a tornado when he goes outside. Scents and landmarks may be altered due to storm damage, causing confusion for your pet. Downed power lines and debris pose safety risks to both your pet and yourself.
If you have any questions about tornado preparedness, don’t hesitate to contact us!