How To Take Care Of A Dog: Dog Safety

A storm is brewing and you're worried. How do you take cares of a dog when your entire home could be swept away? Dog safety is a major concern for people in areas that are hit by natural disasters.

Those of us who live in areas less prone to them tend to not think much about them, until one hits. By then, it's often too late.

As you know, in severe disasters, people have had little choice but to leave their dogs behind to fend for themselves. Some people thought that keeping them contained inside the house or other area would protect their dogs. Sadly, this turned out to be the worst idea.

Even giving the dog free reign over the house and property wasn't always enough. Floods left them clambering onto roofs to save themselves. When the waters subsided, many dogs died because they could not get access to food and water.

So how do you take care of a dog when disasters could arrive without warning?

Dog Safety

Here are some things you can do before, during and after a disaster.

Be prepared beforehand

Have a current colored photo of your dog handy, in your pocket, purse, wallet or stuck to the refrigerator door or in the dog's crate.
Keep a collar on your dog with his ID (your phone number, dog's name, vet's name) when you are aware of a possible disaster.
Stock dog food, water and any necessary medications to sustain your dog for 15 days. Make sure they are in water and air tight containers. Place them in a cool, dry, and easy-to-reach place.
Determine which is the safest spot in your home well ahead of the event. Looking for a safe haven when a storm is bearing down is too late. You need to find a place within your home with interior walls to fit all of your family and pets. Under the stairs is ideal because of the added supports, or in a closet.

Provide protection during the event

Never leave your dog outdoors when high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and floods are evident. You want to protect your dog while still allowing him the opportunity to save himself if things turn really ugly.
In storms, it's best to keep your dog with you or he or she will feel worse. Dogs tend to huddle together for protection, and since you represent the pack, you need to stick together.
Put your dog into a crate during the event so that he cannot run out into danger. If you find that you have to leave him later, however, be sure to open the crate and an exit door. At least he will have a chance.
Use a thick blanket or quilt or, if possible, a mattress, to protect all of you from flying debris.

Take special care after the event.

Your dog is likely to want to run at the first opportunity. Having been scared during the storm, he will take that chance to seek "higher ground", even after the event.
Be careful where you walk and protect your dog's feet from sharp objects such as pieces of metal and glass. Stay clear of damaged power lines. Take special precautions where flooding exists. Fast flowing water can sweep a family member or your dog away in an instant.
If your dog has escaped, have that photo handy to show to people around the neighborhood, rescuers and searchers.
Keep an eye on your dog after a major disaster as he could become fearful and perhaps even fear aggressive. If you see such signs, take steps right away to alleviate them to prevent the behavior from becoming permanent.

It is important to know how to take care of a dog during natural disasters. These tips will help.

If your dog shows signs of aggression and fear after the fact, you need to know how to fix it. Here is an article that provides tips on how to take care of a dog that is fearful. Sylvia Dickens is an award-winning writer who has owned dogs all of her life. She offers her own insights and researched tips and advice on her blog and in her Dog Talk Weekly newsletter. It's free.