While there is no telling what an animal will do when he/she is stressed from a storm, we feel there is a pretty good chance you can get your furry loved one into our storm shelters with you. The biggest issue people seem to have with getting their pets into their shelters with them is finding them and then coaxing them down the stairs to their below ground storm shelters, but with our above ground design, part of the problem is eliminated.
If your pet won’t follow you into the storm shelter and you can’t safely carry them into the shelter with you, the humane society has some advice to help lure them into the safe room with you.
The first thing they suggest is to crate smaller animals and carry them into the shelter with you. If this isn’t feasible or your animal is too large to be crated, the humane society urges you to “Do your best to train your dog to go to the area on command or to come to you on command even when there are distractions.” To avoid confusion, try using a specific command and/or treat while getting into the storm shelter. This will take practice and training, but it will be worth it. You will also want to be aware of your pets’ favorite hiding places and learn how to safely remove them from those places as quickly as possible so that you can get them into your tornado shelter with you.
As far as emergency kits go, aside from all the things we recommend you keep in them for you, such as a radio, water, flashlights, etc. you should also keep a collar, a leash, copies of vaccinations, pet food, water, treats, something to comfort them (like a favorite toy or blanket,) and contact information for your veterinarian.
Although it could be a challenge to get your pet inside a storm shelter with you, it is better to try to get them into one at home, where you are guaranteed they are allowed, than in a public place. There have been several instances where people flee to public shelters in hopes of finding a safe place, but quickly realize their pets are not allowed into the public shelter with them. Debating on whether or not to leave your pet in the car, drive back home to be with your pet, or even stay in the car with your pet, could be the life or death second you don’t have to make a decision.
So whether you invest in one of our shelters at Tornado Alley Armor or you choose to count on public shelters, make sure you include your pets in your emergency plan. And have a plan!