Prepare for the Worst!

9/21/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know dogs can sense a drop in barometric pressure? Have you noticed that your furry friend knows it’s going to storm before you do? A sudden thunderstorm can be terrifying for your dog. September is National Preparedness Month and SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park wants to make sure your dog is safe. 

Veterinarians don't know all the triggers but suspect the dogs are set off by some combination of wind, thunder, lightning, barometric pressure changes, static electricity, and low-frequency rumbles preceding a storm that humans can't hear. 

Here are some tips you should consider: 

• Bring your dogs inside at the first sign of danger. Disasters can be disorienting for dogs, and they could run away or hurt themselves reacting to loud noises and strange changes to their landscape. Also, rain, flying debris and high winds pose a danger. If you need to leave, keep your dog with you.  

• Pack a dog emergency bag. You’ll want emergency provisions packed for your dog well in advance of a catastrophe so you can evacuate your home quickly if needed. Choose an easy-to-carry bag, label it and keep it where everyone in the family can find it quickly. The bag should include a dog first aid kit; enough food and bottled water for a week (rotate this every couple of months to keep it from going bad); medications (check periodically to ensure medicines in your emergency bag don’t expire); cleanup supplies; food and water dishes; bags (or litter for cats) for collecting waste; an extra collar and leash; photocopies of medical records; towels; recent photos of your furry friend; and a favorite toy or chewy for comfort.  
• Create a dog-friendly resource list. Not all emergency shelters will accept dogs, so you need a Plan B. Develop a list of the dog-friendly hotels outside your immediate area. Research a list of veterinarians in the area should your dog need medical care (your regular vet may have some recommendations).  

Disasters such as severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, and fires can strike quickly. Your dog is part of your family and should be part of your preparedness plan. Disasters don’t wait; make your dog’s plan today.