Living in Houston means enjoying a vibrant city with a rich culture—but it also means being prepared with pet disaster preparedness in Houston for natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and severe storms. At Braescroft Animal Clinic in Houston, we care deeply about the well-being of every pet in our community, and we know how critical it is to have a solid plan before disaster strikes.
As beautiful and inviting as our beloved home is, we are no strangers to natural disasters, such as Hurricane Harvey. This guide will walk you through essential steps for pet disaster preparedness in Houston, helping protect your furry family members during emergencies.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
One of the first steps in pet disaster preparedness in Houston is assembling a dedicated emergency kit for your pet.
What to include in your emergency kit:
- At least a five-day supply of food and water
- A leash, harness, and secure carrier or crate
- Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof bag
- Waste disposal items such as litter, litter boxes, or poop bags
- A current photo of your pet in case you are separated
- Comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket
Keep a List of Emergency Contacts
In the chaos of an emergency, it is easy to forget important phone numbers or lose access to your phone. Having a written or printed list of emergency contacts and a basic disaster plan ensures you can act quickly when every second counts.
Include these numbers and details in your emergency contact list:
- Family members and close friends
- Your veterinarian (Braescroft Animal Clinic: 713-721-8081)
- The nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic
- Local animal shelters and pet-friendly shelters
- Emergency services (police, fire department, animal control)
- Pet boarding facilities or pet-friendly hotels outside the evacuation zone
Post this list in an easily accessible place, such as your refrigerator, inside your pet’s emergency kit, or in your go-bag. Keep a backup copy in your car or wallet.
Having these items ready ensures you can act quickly and efficiently if you need to evacuate or shelter in place. The American Red Cross organization has an emergency preparedness checklist, which you can find here. We recommend reviewing it and using it to prepare for any disaster.
Know Your Evacuation Plan
Houston residents know how quickly storms can escalate. During hurricane season, planning where you will go and how you will transport your pet is especially important. Not all shelters accept animals, so identify pet-friendly hotels or make arrangements with family or friends outside the evacuation zone.
Keep your pet’s carrier accessible, and practice getting your pet comfortable with it before an actual emergency occurs. Practicing getting your pet in and out of the carrier reduces stress for both you and your pet during evacuation. At Braescroft Animal Clinic, we encourage you to call us ahead of time if you need help with questions regarding evacuating with your pet or updating your pet’s medical records.
Microchip and ID Tags for Pet Disaster Preparedness in Houston
A microchip is one of the most reliable ways to reunite with a lost pet. Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered with your current contact information. Additionally, ensure your pet always wears a collar with an up-to-date ID tag.
Microchipping is a quick and affordable service that we offer at Braescroft Animal Clinic, and it plays a significant role in effective pet disaster preparedness in Houston. If your pet is not yet microchipped, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment to get it done.
Stay Informed About Houston Emergencies
Monitor local weather alerts and disaster updates through reliable sources. Download emergency alert apps and follow trusted local channels. Sign up for any community alerts specific to the Houston area so you are aware of evacuation notices, shelter openings, or road closures.
Remember that your pet will rely on you entirely for safety and care during a crisis. Taking proactive steps today will help ensure your pet’s security tomorrow. Our team at Braescroft Animal Clinic is always here to assist with every part of pet disaster preparedness in Houston, from health evaluations to preparing documentation for emergency shelters.
Review and Practice Your Plan
Emergencies are stressful, but having a plan in place can make all the difference. Review your disaster plan regularly and update your emergency kit as needed. Practice evacuating with your pet so that you both become familiar with the process. This preparation ensures a smoother experience in case of a real emergency.
If you need help getting started, do not hesitate to contact us at Braescroft Animal Clinic. Our team is proud to serve the Houston community and is ready to support you in every aspect of pet disaster preparedness. When it comes to protecting your pets during a disaster, preparation is key. At Braescroft Animal Clinic, we are committed to helping Houston families keep their pets safe, healthy, and cared for—no matter what comes their way. Contact our team today if you have questions or would like help to customize your pet disaster preparedness plan in Houston.
Braescroft Animal Clinic
9643 Hillcroft St.
Houston, TX 77096
