How to keep your dog safe during a cyclone

Cyclones can be terrifying and dangerous, not only for us but for our pets as well. The strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding associated with cyclones pose a serious risk to your dog’s safety and well-being. As pet parents, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your dog’s protection and comfort during this extreme weather event.

Here’s how to help your dog stay safe and secure during a cyclone:

1. Understand the Risks of Cyclones for Dogs

Cyclones can bring about several risks for your dog, including:

• Strong Winds: High winds can cause debris to fly, making outdoor spaces hazardous. Your dog could easily get injured if caught outside or in areas with flying objects.

• Flooding: Heavy rain can lead to flash floods, making areas around your home dangerous and potentially putting your dog at risk of drowning or being swept away.

• Severe Anxiety: The loud noises, intense winds, and pressure changes associated with cyclones can cause significant stress and anxiety for your dog.

Understanding these risks will help you prepare to protect your dog in advance.

2. Create a Safe Indoor Space

During a cyclone, it’s essential to keep your dog indoors and secure. Here’s how you can help:

• Secure Your Home: Before the cyclone hits, make sure windows, doors, and other openings are secure. Close all windows and blinds to prevent debris from entering. Consider boarding up vulnerable windows.

• Designate a Safe Area: Create a comfortable, quiet, and safe space for your dog, away from windows and doors. A small room or a cozy crate can provide them with a sense of security during the storm.

• Keep Them Calm: Cyclones can be loud and unsettling, so provide your dog with a familiar blanket or toy to help them feel at ease. The sound of soft music or white noise can also help drown out the storm’s noises.

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit for Your Dog

In case the cyclone causes power outages or you need to evacuate, it’s important to have an emergency kit ready for your dog:

• Food and Water: Pack enough food and water for at least three days. Don’t forget a can opener if you’re bringing canned food.

• Medications: If your dog takes any medications, make sure you have enough for the duration of the storm.

• Leash, Collar, and ID: Ensure your dog’s collar is on, with identification tags that have up-to-date contact information. A leash is crucial in case you need to evacuate and move quickly.

• First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit with supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your dog might need in an emergency.

• Comfort Items: Bring along your dog’s favorite blanket or toy to provide comfort during the stressful situation.

4. Keep Your Dog Away from Dangerous Areas

When cyclones bring heavy rain and flooding, there are a number of dangers to be aware of:

• Floodwaters: Do not allow your dog to go near or enter floodwaters, as they can carry debris and currents strong enough to sweep them away. Floodwaters can also be contaminated with bacteria or chemicals, which can be harmful to your dog.

• Flying Debris: High winds can carry debris, so make sure your dog stays indoors at all times during the storm. If your dog must go outside to use the bathroom, keep them on a leash and only let them out for short periods of time.

• Secure Outdoor Items: Secure anything outside that could become a projectile in the wind, such as patio furniture, tools, or garden equipment. Flying objects can injure both you and your dog.

5. Calm Your Dog’s Anxiety

Many dogs experience extreme anxiety during cyclones due to the loud sounds and pressure changes. Here’s how you can help them feel calmer:

• Stay Calm: Dogs are highly intuitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions. By staying calm and composed, you’ll help your dog feel more secure.

• Comfort Them: Offer your dog reassurance by sitting with them, petting them, or talking to them in a soothing voice. If they’re used to a crate, make it a safe, familiar place for them during the storm.  My dogs are used to classical music as puppies so you could play classical music as a calming tool.

• Use Calming Products: There are several calming aids available, such as Thunder shirts (which provide gentle pressure to help ease anxiety), calming pheromone sprays (like Adaptil), or calming music designed for pets.

6. Stay Informed About the Cyclone

Keeping up with weather updates is critical when preparing for and during a cyclone. Here’s how to stay informed:

• Weather Alerts: Set up alerts on your phone or a weather app to get real-time updates. Pay attention to cyclone warnings and evacuation orders in your area.

• Emergency Plans: If you live in a region that is prone to cyclones, it’s important to have a family emergency plan that includes your dog. Know the locations of pet-friendly shelters in your area, or arrange for friends or family members to help in case you need to evacuate.

7. Prepare for the Aftermath

Once the cyclone has passed, it’s important to ensure the safety of both you and your dog as you assess any potential damage:

• Check for Hazards: Before allowing your dog outside, carefully inspect your property for debris, downed power lines, or any dangerous obstacles.

• Monitor for Stress: After a cyclone, your dog may still feel anxious or disoriented. Be patient and continue to offer them comfort and reassurance as they adjust.

• Keep Your Dog Leashed: Even once the storm has passed, keep your dog on a leash during walks to ensure they stay safe from hazards or potential danger in the environment.

Conclusion

Cyclones are powerful and unpredictable, but with preparation and a calm approach, you can help your dog weather the storm safely. By creating a safe environment, providing comfort, staying informed, and having an emergency plan, you can ensure your dog stays protected and calm during these intense weather events. As always, your dog relies on you to keep them safe, so taking the right precautions ahead of time can make all the difference when disaster strikes.

Stay safe, and remember to keep your furry friend close during a cyclone. They depend on you for comfort and security, and together, you can face whatever the storm brings.