18/03/2026
In weather events, it's not about doing more. It's about reducing risk, staying calm, and getting through it safely. Your pets don't need perfect, they just need you to be prepared, and paying attention.
BEFORE THE STORM
Bring them in early. Don't wait until the heavy rains or winds hit. Once it starts, stress levels spike fast (yours & theirs).
Secure your space. Check fences, gates, latches. What normally holds might not in high wind or flooding.
Set up a safe area. A quiet, enclosed space (laundry, hallway, bathroom) and add familiar bedding or somthing that you have recently worn all day that still smells like you.
Gather quick essentials. Collar, ID tag, recent photo of your pet, 3-7 days food, water, medication.
DURING HIGH WIND AND RAIN
Keep them contained. No roaming, no "quick runs outside" once it's active.
Reduce the noise and chaos. Close windows and blinds. Use a fan, soft music, or talk radio (human voices) to buffer the sound.
Let them choose how to cope. Some will want to be close. Some will hide. Both are normal, don't force it.
Use covered areas for toileting, where possible, Consider toilet pads and temporary indoor set ups for small dogs. Give larger dogs short, leashed breaks between wind gusts.
NEVER LEAVE A PET TIED UP, OR RUNNING LOOSE OUTSIDE
- flying debris can hit them when they can't move
- rising water can trap or drown them
- trees, fences, or structures an collapse onto them
- leads can tangle creating a strangulation risk
- panic + restraint = injury, they'll fight the lead
- dogs bolt in storms, get lost, or hit by cars
If you can't control the environment outside, bring your pet into an environment that you can.
HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING
This is where things can get risky, very quickly. Flood water isn't just water:
- it hides debris and sharp objects
- it carries bacteria, parasites, and chemical run off
- even shallow moving water can sweep a dog off their feet
Do not let dogs play or roam in floodwater!
Containment matters more than ever. Keep dogs on a lead when they are outside, and keep cats fully indoors.
EVACUATION PLAN
Be honest, if you need to leave quickly could you grab your pets in 30 seconds? Have ready:
- lead and crate at the door
- food and meds in one spot
- a plan that doesn't rely on thinking under pressure
AFTER THE STORM
This is when a lot of pet injuries happen. Check your environment first:
- fences may be damaged
- debris, sharp objects, snakes (croc's are also a consideration)
- still water is a contamination risk
- check on outdoor dogs regularly for cuts, limping, lethargy
- drinking floodwater is common but very risky, don't let them
Heat + Humidity + Damp Coats = SKIN ISSUES
- dry paws, belly, ears regularly
- change out damp bedding
- keep things clean and simple
- use a pet safe insect spray
Once the weather settles, gentle support like a chamomile/calendula rinse that you can make yourself at home can be a huge help in resetting irritated skin, and very inexpensive compared to vet and commercial products.
Preparation and staying calm will get you and your pets through this event....
Lyjelle x
