Hurricane Irene Tips for Old Dog Owners!

Hurricane Irene has been in the news non-stop lately. Those on the east coast hopefully picked up extra dog food when they went out for water and people supplies if they have an old dog at home. Earlier this year, I posted about the Thundershirt for Dogs as a way to keep an old dog calm in a storm. It would be a good idea to have that calming tool handy this week as hurricanes are known to be noisy with 100+ mph winds and tornadoes.

Yes, it is the east coast this time where the hurricane force winds will be blowing but even in areas where hurricanes are not common, it is important to remember to be prepared for an emergency with an older dog in the house. Many families have a survival kit for emergencies but did you remember to include necessities for your dog too?

Ideas for a Old Dog Survival Kit

1. Fresh water. It's not just essential for humans, make sure you have enough for your canine friend.
2. Thundershirt or other calming device. It could be a long, frightening experience for your four-legged friend.
3. Extra Food. Don't forget to have a supply of your dogs regular food and treats on hand.
4. Lantern or other axillary light source. Older dogs have trouble seeing and in dim or no light it could be impossible.
5. Prescribed medicines. Again, enough for the duration of the emergency.
6. Puppy pads. Yes...your old dog may revert to going indoors during severe weather and accidents could occur.
7. Leash. Keep an extra leash in your survival kit. In an emergency, you might not be able to get to the one kept by the door.
8. Collapsible Dog Ramp. If stairs are damaged or dangerous, it may make the task of  relocating your senior dog less traumatic. 
9. Dog First Aid Kit. This is essential as an older dog is more apt to get injured during the confusion of a storm or other emergency. 

Okay, it may be a little late to be ready for Hurricane Irene. But as this was the first named hurricane of 2011, Jose, Katia, Lee, Maria or Nate could be next. And across the country other emergencies from floods to blizzards could put your family and senior dog in jeopardy. Will you be ready?

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