For millions of Americans, hurricane season (June 1–November 30) is a stressful time — not just for humans, but for pets too. In fact, according to the National Hurricane Center, hurricanes impact U.S. coastlines every single year, causing billions in damage and sometimes forcing entire communities to evacuate.
Sadly, after Hurricane Katrina (2005), thousands of pets were abandoned because shelters and rescue efforts couldn’t accommodate them. Learning from that tragedy, more emergency management strategies now stress: if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pets.
Your pets are family members — which means they should be included in your hurricane preparedness plan. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from building a pet emergency kit to options for evacuating safely with them, as well as what to do if you absolutely cannot bring them with you.
Why Pet Preparedness Matters
- The FDA warns that pets exposed to contaminated floodwater are at risk of bacterial infections, parasites, and chemical poisoning.
- Microchipped pets are up to 20 times more likely to be reunited with their owners compared to non-microchipped pets.
- According to Ready.gov, pets must be part of your evacuation plan because not all emergency shelters allow animals.
Build a Pet Emergency Kit
Just like humans need a hurricane survival kit, your pet needs one too. Prepare two versions: a larger one if you’re sheltering at home, and a “go-bag” for evacuation.
Items to Include:
- Food & Water: 7-day supply in airtight containers
- Medications: At least 2-weeks’ worth in waterproof bags
- Bowls: Collapsible or travel-friendly bowls
- Sanitation Supplies: Litter, disposable litter boxes, pee pads, poop bags, newspapers, cleaning spray
- Carriers/Crates: One per pet, labeled with your contact info
- Leashes/Harnesses/Collars with ID tags (include a backup set)
- Pet First Aid Kit
- Comfort Items: Toys, blankets, treats to reduce stress
- Proof of Vaccinations & Medical Records: Many shelters and hotels require them
- Recent Photo with Your Pet: Helps prove ownership if separated
Download a full Pet Emergency Kit Checklist (PDF) from Ready.gov Pets.
Plan How to Evacuate with Your Pets
The #1 rule of pet hurricane safety: Bring them with you. Leaving pets behind puts them at extreme risk from flooding, flying debris, lack of food, or being lost.
Options for Evacuating With Pets:
- Pet-Friendly Shelters: Only some emergency shelters accept pets. Check local emergency management agencies or the Red Cross shelter directory.
- Pet-Friendly Hotels & Motels: Websites like BringFido.com and PetsWelcome.com list pet-accommodating hotels, some of which waive pet fees during disasters.
- Family & Friends: Arrange in advance if relatives can take in your pets.
- Veterinary Clinics & Boarding Facilities: Some offer temporary housing during emergencies.
Flying With Pets During a Hurricane Evacuation
When evacuating with pets during a hurricane, multiple U.S. airlines permit small pets to travel in-cabin (with additional restrictions for larger animals and cargo), which can be crucial for safe, rapid evacuation instead of leaving pets behind.
Pet-Friendly Airlines for Hurricane Evacuation
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Southwest Airlines – Allows small vaccinated cats and dogs in-cabin for a fee.
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American Airlines – Accepts pets in-cabin and can transport others via American Airlines Cargo.
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Delta Air Lines – Permits small cats, dogs, and household birds in-cabin for a fee; medium and large pets use Delta Cargo.
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JetBlue – Has the JetPaws program for in-cabin travel for small cats and dogs.
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Alaska Airlines – Offers both in-cabin and cargo transport options for pets.
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Allegiant Air – Allows small pets (cats/dogs) in-cabin, provided they fit carrier rules and no cargo option is available.
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Spirit Airlines – Permits small pets in-cabin (cats/dogs, some rabbits/birds) but not in cargo.
Evacuation-Specific Considerations
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During hurricane evacuations, the PETS Act requires authorities and infrastructure to include pets in response plans, so taking pets as cabin passengers on commercial flights is strongly advised.
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Avoid shipping pets in cargo during hurricanes due to risk, unpredictable conditions, and limited oversight; in-cabin travel is safest for rapid evacuations.
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Most airlines have strict carrier size limits for in-cabin travel. Federal guidelines and some emergency shelters also facilitate keeping pets with their owners for safety.
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Contact the airline promptly when an evacuation order occurs, as available in-cabin pet spots may fill quickly and not all emergency flights support animal evacuation.
Airline policies above are confirmed and comply with 2025 federal and local emergency planning standards for pet evacuations.
Staying Home During the Storm
Sometimes sheltering in place is your safest choice. If so:
- Keep pets indoors in a safe interior room (no windows/glass doors).
- Place them in carriers or crates to prevent escape or injury.
- Use pee pads, disposable litter boxes, or even a kiddie pool lined with sod as indoor potty options.
- Stockpile extra water — pets need just as much as humans.
- Have comfort items (blankets, toys) to keep them calm during long, loud hours.
If You Absolutely Cannot Evacuate With Your Pets
This should always be a last resort. If you must leave pets behind due to sudden evacuation:
- Leave them in a windowless, interior room with ventilation.
- Provide several days of food & water (heavy bowls that can’t be tipped).
- Keep pets separated by species (cats separate from dogs if possible).
- Provide comfort items (toys, beds, blankets).
- Post an Emergency Rescue Sticker on your door listing pets inside.
Special Considerations
Microchipping & ID
- Microchipped pets are 20x more likely to be reunited with owners after disasters.
- Always keep ID tags with your current contact info.
Large Animals (Horses, Goats, Pigs)
- Evacuate early — livestock trailers may be limited.
- Ensure they have permanent ID (tattoos, microchips, brands).
- Map evacuation routes ahead of hurricane season.
Birds & Small Animals
- Secure cages inside a protected room.
- Provide food dispensers and extra water bottles.
- Cover cages with a breathable cloth to minimize stress.
After the Storm
Once the hurricane passes:
- Check your pets immediately for injuries, stress, or illness.
- Don’t let them drink standing floodwater (filled with toxins and bacteria).
- Return gradually to their normal routine.
- Contact your vet if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or unusual behavior.
Downloadable & Essential Resources
Final Thoughts
Hurricanes are terrifying and unpredictable, but creating a disaster plan that includes your pets can save lives. Remember this golden rule:
If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pets.
With a well-prepared pet evacuation kit, updated microchip information, and a clear sheltering/evacuation plan, you can ensure your furry, feathered, or scaled friends stay safe this hurricane season.
