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If Hurricane Beryl taught Houstonians anything, it hammered home (literally) the importance of being prepared ahead of a natural disaster.

While you can’t predict the path of a storm, nor the intensity or lasting effects it may leave in its wake, you can control how well you prepare yourself, your family, your living space, and importantly – your pets.

It’s crucial to care for ourselves during these times, but we must also keep our furry friends in mind. Only 46% of pet owners in the United States have an emergency plan in place, according to statistics posted by the ASPCA.

“These alarming survey results…demonstrate the vital need for effective preparedness tactics among pet owners, as well as local and national measures that protect vulnerable animals,” ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker said.

Data shows Hurricane Beryl’s Category 1 force winds knocked the power out for nearly 3 million people, bringing an onslaught of challenges like surviving a smoldering, humid Bayou City summer with absolutely no air conditioning for a week.

For the millions of pet owners in the Houston area, they were not only faced with how they would deal with the heat themselves, but also how they could keep their furry friends cool.

So, what do you do with a pet in this situation? It’s all about getting handy with what you already have at home while also preparing beforehand.

1. Bing your pet to a place with power

Whether it’s piling everyone into a friend’s house, taking your pet to a boarding facility or your Vet, you should always try to get your pet into AC if possible. Even if it’s for a day of daycare, any sort of relief helps.

2. Always keep water accessible

Having drinking water available for your pet is probably the most vital responsibility as a pet parent, even when there’s power. So when there’s no air conditioning post-Hurricane, their need for water becomes even more crucial. This is where freezing bottles ahead of time can become super handy.

3. Avoid letting them play outside in the afternoon heat

The hottest part of the day happens between 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., and sometimes even earlier on particularly sunny, humid days–which Houston often experiences right after a hurricane. We know pups can get antsy, but limiting their exposure to the afternoon heat is important when they don’t have AC to help regulate their body temperature.

4. Freezing water bottles ahead of time

You’re most likely already getting packs of water bottles for your household, so why not spare a few of them for your pet? We suggest sticking them in the freezer, so when you’re without power you still have a cold source. Whether it be to place it on them to cool them off, or defrost them to use for drinking water– frozen water bottles are a great tool when without electricity.

5. Icepacks

You might already have ice packs in your freezer, so don’t forget to use them! These can be used just like frozen water bottles. Simply place them under a pet bed or let your pet rest against it when they’re feeling hot– they’ll thank you later.

6. Buy cooling mat beforehand to have handy

Cooling mats cool down the pet that sits on it. And the best thing about it requires no prior freezing to use, as it has a gel inside that cools when a pet hasn’t been sitting on it–so absolutely no electricity needed? These can be bought at pet stores or even on Amazon. However, if you’re in a hunch, spreading out a wet towel on the ground can help.

7. Shade outside could sometimes feel better than staying inside stagnant air

You may think indoors feels cooler when your AC isn’t working, however that air becomes stagnant and hot pretty quickly. It can be a good idea to take some breaks outside with your pet in the shade to get some fresh air…and hopefully a breeze!

8. Wetting a bandana or their collar

This is another simple tool you can use to bring your pup some relief. The coolness of the water around their neck will help bring their body temperature down.

Meadowlake Pet Resort is a great option for boarding during times like these, as we’ve weathered many storms safely over the past 15 years! By planning ahead and using these tips, you can ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable during power outages. Stay prepared and keep your furry friends in mind!