Hurricane Season Prep for Pets: A Raleigh Pet Parent's Checklist
Raleigh is a few hours from the coast, but North Carolina storms can still reach us. Tropical systems can bring heavy rain, high winds, downed trees and power outages to the Triangle.
When a storm is in the forecast, the last thing you want is to be hunting for your dog's vaccine records or the last bag of food on the shelf. A little prep now makes storm day much calmer for everyone, including your pets.
When does hurricane season start?
Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. Wake County Animal Services recommends getting your pet's immunizations up to date and taking current photos before the season starts. For forecasts and storm updates, follow the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service in Raleigh.
Step 1: Build a pet emergency kit
ReadyNC, the state's emergency preparedness site, recommends a pet kit that includes:
- Food and water for at least 3 to 7 days, plus bowls. Wake County suggests at least two weeks of food, and a manual can opener if your pet eats canned food.
- Medications, with at least a two-week supply.
- A collar, leash, harness and muzzle (if needed).
- A sturdy carrier or crate.
- ID and immunization records, plus medical records in a waterproof container.
- Current photos of your pets, in case you get separated.
- A pet first aid kit.
- A flashlight and a blanket.
Don't forget the comfort items: a favorite toy, a chew and a towel that smells like home. Cat parents, add litter and a small litter box.
Tip: Take photos of your pet's records and save them on your phone or in the cloud too.
Step 2: Make a plan for where your pets will stay
Wake County notes that some public shelters can't accept pets, and recommends having a written plan and leaving early if you need to evacuate. ReadyNC adds that at shelters that do accept pets, animals may be housed in a separate area or even off-site, which is why a crate matters.
Put together your list now:
- Pet-friendly hotels along your likely evacuation route
- Friends or family outside the area who can host you and your pets
- Boarding facilities or your vet's office
- A "buddy" nearby who can check on your pets if you can't get home. ReadyNC recommends this buddy system.
Never leave pets behind. If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for them.
Step 3: Practice the crate
Wake County recommends crate training before an emergency. A dog who already sees the crate as a cozy den will be much calmer during a storm or in a shelter. Practice short car rides too.
Step 4: When the storm is coming
ReadyNC recommends bringing pets inside at the first sign of a storm warning. A few more things to do:
- Fill up on water and medications before the stores get busy.
- Double-check collar ID tags and microchip contact info.
- Set up a quiet, interior room with your pet's bed and crate.
- Charge your phone, and keep your kit by the door.
Storms can be noisy. Many of the same calming tricks we use for fireworks, like background noise and a cozy safe space, can help.
Step 5: After the storm
The days after a storm can be riskier for pets than the storm itself. ReadyNC and Wake County both recommend keeping dogs on leash, even in familiar places, because landmarks and smells change and fences may be damaged. Also:
- Stay away from downed power lines and debris.
- Keep pets out of floodwater. ReadyNC advises against letting pets drink or wade in it.
- Walk your yard for broken glass, nails and branches before letting your dog out.
How Hooman on Demand can help
Our pet sitting visits keep pets fed and comfortable at home when you're traveling. For general prep, our guide to preparing for a pet sitter covers the emergency contacts and vet info we ask for. Check our service areas to see if we cover your neighborhood.
Frequently asked questions
What should be in a pet emergency kit?
ReadyNC recommends at least 3 to 7 days of food and water, bowls, a two-week supply of medications, a leash and collar, a carrier, ID and vaccine records, photos, a first aid kit, a flashlight and a blanket. Wake County suggests at least two weeks of food.
Do Wake County shelters accept pets during hurricanes?
Wake County notes that some public shelters do not accept pets. Plan ahead with pet-friendly hotels, friends or boarding, and check official updates during an emergency.
When should I bring my pets inside before a storm?
ReadyNC recommends bringing pets inside at the first sign of a storm warning.
Is it safe to walk my dog after a hurricane?
Keep your dog on a leash, avoid floodwater, debris and downed power lines, and check your yard before letting your dog out.
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Sources
- ReadyNC: Pets and Service Animals
- Wake County: Emergency Preparedness for Pets and Their Families
- National Hurricane Center
- National Weather Service Raleigh
- Ready.gov: Prepare Your Pets for Disasters
Sources were checked in October 2026. Local rules, hours and events can change, so please check the linked sources for updates.