Weathering summer storms with your pet

Storms can be scary for both humans and animals, but it’s important to remember that your furry friends rely on you for their safety. You’re also responsible for making them feel safe! Here are some tips for weathering summer storms with your furry friends.   

Be fully prepared   

Even before a storm hits, it’s important to plan ahead so you can ensure you’re prepared for an emergency. During a severe storm, you want to be prepared with a pet first-aid kit, as well as a 72-hour survival kit for you and your pets. For a list of items for this kit, see our Emergency Preparedness page. You’ll also want to ensure your pet wears a properly fitted collar and ID tags. Microchipping is also encouraged to help increase the chances of being reunited with your pets if they become lost.   

Take cover   

First and foremost, you and your pet need a safe place to take shelter. If a storm becomes severe, head to your basement if you have one. Set up a comfortable space there for your furry friend as well, so you’re both prepared to stay safely in place if needed for an extended period. 

You should also keep animals indoors, making sure to close windows and doors. Startled animals may seek a place to hide and if they manage to get outside, it can be easy to lose them. If you need to take your dog outside, keep them leashed at all times to prevent them from bolting and becoming lost.   

Dangerous toxins   

If you choose your basement as a shelter in case of emergencies, it’s important to be aware of what toxic chemicals may be stored down there. As curious creatures, animals may feel the need to sniff or potentially taste the chemical if they have the opportunity. It’s important to keep these products far away from where you and your furry friends are hiding out.   

Hide and seek    

Animals often have favourite hiding spots they like to go to if they are anxious or scared. It is important for caregivers to know where these spots are in case evacuation is necessary and their furry friend is winning the game of hide and seek.   

It is important to be prepared for when the thunderstorms come rolling in. Block out flashing lights by keeping curtains and blinds closed or by placing a blanket over your animal’s crate. Turn on the TV or play quiet music to help drown out the noise.  

Stay calm! Animals may pace around, make noise, or search for a place to hide. Let them be – remaining calm will help reassure that there’s no danger. 

Feel free to share these tips with your friends! Let’s help each other prepare for the next summer storm.  

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.