Hurricane season has arrived. I have lived in Sarasota since 1974 and have witnessed many storms, both named and unnamed. You will see many recommendations to help us prepare for a major hurricane. These storms can leave us without power and cause some of us to evacuate our homes. Many years ago, a storm named Andrew caught many people and their pets off-guard. It flattened the homestead and many pets were lost.
So, while acquiring the things we will need in a storm, do not forget your pets. Here is a list of items to obtain and have ready in case there is a hurricane in our area:
A two-week supply of your pet’s food (particularly if your pet is on a prescription diet) must be purchased and ready, whether you are traveling away, sheltering at home, or boarding your pets.
Your pet’s vaccinations must be up to date. Rabies and kennel cough vaccines (Bordetella and Canine Influenza) are required at boarding facilities or if sheltering at a public or private facility.
A two-week supply of your pet’s medication(s) must also be ready. Our older pets that may be on daily drugs cannot be without their medications, so be sure to order them early!
Check with public shelters, boarding facilities, and hotels on their pet policies. Unfortunately, not all facilities allow pets and when a storm is approaching, you will not have the time to find places to keep your pets.
Medications to calm your pet during a storm will be helpful. Many animals are fearful of storms; however, there are good drugs available to calm them. Discuss these options with your veterinarian and test them to see how your pet responds to the medication.
Have your pet microchipped! During Hurricane Andrew, many animals were lost and never returned home simply because they lacked sufficient identification. Be sure that the company that holds the microchip number has your contact information.
Pay attention to the weather advisories, and act early, so you and your pets will survive any hurricanes that come our way.
David J. Smith, VMD
Bay Road Animal Hospitals
Veterinary Technicians
Missy
H
Head CVT
Missy first started at Bay Road Animal Hospital in 2003. She took the last few years off to pursue an interest in a specialty practice but rejoined the Bay Road team in early 2022. Missy received her AS Degree in veterinary technology from Penn Foster in 2013. With her many years of experience and advanced skill set she effortlessly moved up into our Head CVT position in August. When Missy is not working, she loves spending her time training her horses, participating in rodeos and spending time with her family.
Lela began working at Bay Road Animal Hospital in 1984 after she graduated from The University of Florida with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Forest Resource Conservation. While working at Bay Road, Lela received her AS degree in Veterinary Technology from St. Petersburg College. She is a Florida native and lives in Myakka City with her husband, two boys, and many animals.
Daniella joined the Bay Road team in 2018. She started as a veterinary assistant, then moved into a scribe position and is now a veterinary technician assistant. She is currently enrolled in school and working towards being a certified veterinary technician. She loves to provide the customers and patients with the best care and support she can.
Gabby joined the Bay Road team in early 2022 as a veterinary assistant. She recently enrolled in the Veterinary Technology program at Penn Foster and is now working more as a technician assistant to help further her education. Gabby lives on a small farm east of Sarasota and has a variety of pets ranging from dogs, cats and guinea pigs to sheep and goats to even a gecko named Chip. When Gabby is not working or completing schoolwork, she loves spending time with her family and friends.
Missy HHead CVT
Lela WCVT
Daniella L,CVT
Gabby R,CVT
