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Preparing for a major hurricane like Hurricane Helene involves not just making sure you and your family are safe, but also ensuring that your dogs are well-prepared. Small dogs like Boston Terriers, which can be prone to respiratory issues and stress, need special care during emergencies. Here's a guide to help you prepare yourself and your pets for such an event.
1. Personal and Family Preparedness
Before diving into dog-specific advice, let's quickly cover how to prepare yourself and your family. A well-rounded approach will keep everyone as safe as possible and help to reduce panic during an emergency.
Create an Emergency Kit
Your emergency kit should include:
Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days
Non-perishable food: Enough for at least three days per person
Flashlights and headlamps and batteries
Candles and matches
First-aid supplies
Personal medications
Extra toiletries
Important documents: Store these in waterproof bags.
Cash: In case electronic payment systems are down.
Phone chargers and backup power banks
Generator
Gas for generator
Extension cords long enough to plug appliances, such as a refrigerator, into the generator
Toilet paper
Camping supplies such as sleeping bags, blankets, changes of clothing
5 gallon fuel canisters, fill with fuel as soon as you have notice. If you keep them year round use them up and replace them often to keep gas fresh.
Work gloves and boots
Chainsaw
Portable solar panel
Solar outdoor shower
Personal protection equipment (self defense items such as knives, pepper spray etc)
Starlink Satellite Communication Device
Entertainment such as books, games, scriptures
Make sure your family has a communication plan. Decide on a meeting point and ensure every family member knows what to do if you're separated. Keep your car fueled, as gas stations may run out quickly.
2. Dog-Specific Emergency Preparedness
Boston Terriers: Special Considerations
Boston Terriers, like many small breeds, are brachycephalic, meaning they have shorter snouts. This can make them more sensitive to heat and stress, both of which can be exacerbated during emergencies. Therefore, you need to consider specific steps for these dogs.
Assemble a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like for humans, pets need their own emergency kits. For Boston Terriers, this should include:
Water: Dogs need about an ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. Plan for at least three days.
Food: Pack enough for at least three days, along with bowls.
Medications: If your dog takes medication, ensure you have enough to last at least a week.
Identification and records: Keep a recent photo of your dog, vaccination records, and a microchip number in a waterproof bag.
Leash, harness, and carrier: Boston Terriers can easily get stressed during emergencies, so a secure carrier can be a safe and calming place.
Waste bags and cleaning supplies: If you're stuck in close quarters, keeping your dog's space clean is essential.
Comfort items: A favorite blanket or toy can help reduce your dog's stress levels during a traumatic event.
Safety Measures During a Storm
Keep calm: Dogs pick up on your energy. Stay calm to help your Boston Terrier remain relaxed.
Keep your dog close: Avoid leaving your dog outside during high winds or heavy rains. Small dogs like Boston Terriers can easily be injured or lost.
Prepare for possible evacuations: If you live in an evacuation zone, be ready to leave quickly. Keep your dog on a leash or in a carrier and bring all essential supplies with you.
3. Sheltering In Place vs. Evacuating
Sheltering in Place with Your Dog
If it's safe to stay home, set up a space where your dog can feel secure. Choose a room away from windows, such as a bathroom or hallway. Make sure this room has:
Food, water, and bedding for your dog.
Access to a litter box or puppy pads in case going outside is not an option due to extreme conditions.
Keep in mind that loud noises, such as wind or thunder, may scare your dog. Playing soothing music or using calming pheromone sprays can help keep anxiety levels down.
Evacuating with Your Dog
If evacuation orders are issued, do not leave your dog behind. Evacuating with a dog like a Boston Terrier requires careful planning:
Research pet-friendly shelters in advance. Not all emergency shelters accept pets, so know where you can go ahead of time.
Have a plan for transport: Boston Terriers, being small, are easy to transport in a carrier, but if your dog suffers from anxiety, you might want to consider natural calming aids such as CBD treats or prescribed medication.
Keep a pet "bug out bag" in all of your vehicles.
4. After the Storm: Returning Home
When it's safe to return home, you and your dog will need time to adjust. The environment may look and smell different, which can cause anxiety in dogs.
Post-Storm Considerations for Boston Terriers
Check for hazards: Boston Terriers are curious and may try to sniff out dangerous debris like broken glass or sharp objects.
Re-establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so return to regular feeding, walking, and play schedules as quickly as possible to help your dog feel secure.
Monitor your dog's health: Stress can sometimes cause dogs to develop health issues like upset stomachs or breathing problems. Be vigilant and contact your vet if any issues arise.
5. Emergency Preparedness for Dogs with Special Needs
Boston Terriers, as mentioned earlier, are brachycephalic dogs, meaning they can have trouble breathing in stressful conditions, especially in hot and humid environments. Here are additional tips:
Monitor temperature: Keep your dog cool with portable fans or damp towels if you lose power.
Watch for heatstroke: Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. Have water on hand and never leave your dog in a hot car.
Minimize stress: Small dogs like Boston Terriers are prone to anxiety. Consider using calming aids like natural supplements or vet-prescribed medications during storms.
6. Long-Term Preparedness Tips
It’s crucial to maintain a level of preparedness at all times. Here are some long-term tips:
Annual vet checkups: Ensure your dog's vaccinations and medications are up-to-date.
Rotate emergency supplies: Just like human emergency kits, dog food, water, and medication should be replaced regularly to ensure they're fresh.
Microchipping and ID tags: Ensure your dog has a microchip and wears an ID tag with your current contact information at all times.
Resources
Here are some valuable websites and resources for preparing yourself and your pets for emergencies:
1. Ready.gov - Pets and Animals
This government website provides comprehensive information on how to prepare for disasters with pets, including checklists for emergency kits, evacuation planning, and sheltering strategies.
Website: Ready.gov - Pets and Animals
2. ASPCA Disaster Preparedness
The ASPCA offers detailed guides on how to create pet emergency kits, steps for evacuations, and tips on keeping pets safe during disasters. They also have a mobile app that provides up-to-date information and alerts.
Website: ASPCA Disaster Preparedness
3. American Red Cross - Pet Disaster Preparedness
The Red Cross provides important tips on preparing for disasters with pets, including advice on building an emergency kit and what to do during an evacuation. They also offer information on pet-friendly shelters and how to manage pets during stressful situations.
Website: American Red Cross - Pet Disaster Preparedness
4. The Humane Society of the United States
This resource covers how to prepare for natural disasters with pets, including evacuation planning and first-aid tips. The Humane Society also emphasizes the importance of microchipping and having pet identification.
Website: The Humane Society - Disaster Preparedness for Pets
5. FEMA - Animals in Disasters
FEMA's section on pets and animals in disasters provides guidelines for how to include pets in disaster planning. They offer downloadable checklists and tips for keeping pets safe during different types of emergencies.
Website: FEMA - Animals in Disasters
These resources provide the guidance needed to ensure you and your pets are prepared for emergencies like hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters.
Conclusion
Preparing for a hurricane requires a lot of foresight, especially if you have a dog like a Boston Terrier that is more prone to stress and respiratory issues. By preparing an emergency kit, creating an evacuation plan, and knowing how to reduce your dog’s anxiety, you can to your best to help keep your Boston Terrier safe in the event of a major storm like Hurricane Helene. Keeping calm, maintaining routines to the best of your ability, and being proactive will go a long way in ensuring both you and your pet get through the emergency safely.
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