A power outage can happen unexpectedly. Storms, freezing temperatures, traffic accidents, and more can result in a power outage of a few hours or a few days. Last week, we shared about the tornado that recently hit Katy, causing power outages and property damage. Today, we’re sharing a pet parent’s guide to power outages because you can never be too prepared for the unexpected.
A Pet Parent’s Guide to Power Outages: Prepare
Just like you’d create an emergency kit for the humans in your family, consider putting together a pet emergency kit. The following are some key items to include:
- Flashlights and Batteries: Plan for one flashlight and a spare set of batteries for each person in the household, children included
- Extra food and water: Aim for at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water. Don’t forget a can opener if you need it
- Medications: If your pet requires medication, ensure you have an extra supply on hand in case the outage is prolonged
- First-aid kit: A basic pet first-aid kit can be a lifesaver in any situation
- Comfort items: Familiar toys, bedding, and treats can help reduce your pet’s anxiety during a stressful time
A Pet Parent’s Guide to Power Outages: Manage Temperatures
For Houston area residents, managing temperatures inside the home may be a challenge during power outages. When dealing with extreme hot or cold outdoor temperatures, it won’t take long before it feels steamy or frigid indoors.
If it’s a hot summer day, prioritize keeping your pet cool. Move them to the coolest part of the house, ideally a room with tile flooring and no direct sunlight. Fill a shallow pan, tub, or kiddie pool with cool water (not ice cold) and let your pet wade in it. Battery-operated fans can also provide some relief, but consider moving to a hotel with power if your pet starts to have a hard time cooling him or herself. Heat stroke is a serious concern when temperatures rise and there is little to no ventilation. Check out our blog for other ways to beat the heat!
During a winter outage, bundle up your pet with blankets or sweaters. Snuggling together under a pile of cozy throws can help generate body heat. If you have a fireplace, be sure to use a fireguard to keep curious pets safe from flames. In the winter, you’ll want to prevent broken pipes if outside temperatures drop below freezing.
A Pet Parent’s Guide to Power Outages: Stay Calm
Power outages can cause stress. And, ongoing power outages in extreme temperatures are a veritable nightmare, especially when young kids and pets are involved. For this reason, it’s important to check your emotions and stress levels until the power comes back. Your kids and pets will be looking to you for guidance.
As hard is it may be to do so without power, make maintaining routines a priority during power outages. If it’s safe to do so, walk your dog as you normally would, keeping an eye out for downed power lines and debris. Try to feed your pets at the usual time so that they get a sense of stability despite the power outage. Be present, talk softly, and use your resources.
During a power outage, playtime can go a long way for your pets. Keep them engage in indoor or outdoor play, ensure they are getting ample exercise, and bring out the CBD or calming treats as needed. While you’re at it, be sure you practice some self-care too!
A Pet Parent’s Guide to Power Outages: Connect with Others
Often, when there is a power outage, whole neighborhoods loose power at one time. If that’s the case in your area, connect with your neighbors. Try to bring the community together to ensure your protection and comfort until the power returns.
Many neighborhoods will take the opportunity to plan a block party and grill up the meat that defrosted in their freezer, share the beer in their cooler, and let the kids play in the sprinklers. A power outage is a great way to connect (or reconnect) with your neighbors.
Keep in mind that your pet may be nervous and could be more comfortable indoors instead of at the neighborhood BBQ. The last thing we want during a power outage is to lose our pets.
At Animal Admiration, we believe in prevention, which is why most of what we share in this blog is tips for preventing pet accidents, pet illnesses, and more. When Mother Nature or Murphy’s Law strike, we believe in having a plan, an emergency kit, and a village to make things more manageable.
As we said last week, the 2024 hurricane season is predicted to be more active than usual. We urge you to discuss your plans with your family and always make your pet(s) an integral part of your emergency and evacuation plans.
To learn about our in-home pet care services including dog walking, dog sitting, and cat sitting, contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015. Our team of outstanding pet care providers offers quality care dog sitting, cat sitting, and dog walking services in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress.
Stay safe out there, friends!
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