Skip to content

Pet Friendly Hurricane Shelter Palm Beach County, FL

  • by
Pet Friendly Hurricane Shelter

Hurricanes can be a dangerous and stressful time for everyone, including our pets. If you and your pet are facing the threat of a hurricane, it’s important to have a plan in place to ensure their safety. One option is to shelter with your pet in the safety of your own home. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all emergency shelters allow pets, and it’s also important to prepare your home and have enough supplies for both you and your pet. In this article, we will be discussing the steps you can take to properly prepare for a hurricane with your pet and the best ways to ensure their safety and well-being during the storm. We will also cover the important things to consider when deciding whether to shelter at home or evacuate, and provide resources and information on emergency shelters that accept pets.

When preparing for a hurricane with your pet, it’s important to have a designated safe room in your home that is secure and away from windows. This room should be equipped with a comfortable space for your pet to rest, as well as a litter box or potty area if necessary. It’s also important to have enough food, water, and any necessary medications for at least a week for both you and your pet. Make sure to have a pet first aid kit on hand, including items such as bandages, antiseptic, and a pet-specific thermometer.

If you decide to shelter at home during a hurricane, it’s important to secure any loose items that could become dangerous during the storm and ensure that your pet has a secure and comfortable place to stay. It’s also important to have a plan in case of evacuation, including a list of pet-friendly emergency shelters or hotels in the area, as well as a carrier or crate for your pet and their necessary identification and vaccination records.

When considering whether to shelter at home or evacuate, it’s important to take into account the strength and projected path of the hurricane, as well as the safety and well-being of both you and your pet. If you do decide to evacuate, make sure to leave early, as many emergency shelters fill up quickly and may not be able to accommodate late arrivals.

It’s also important to keep in mind that not all emergency shelters accept pets, so it’s a good idea to research and make a list of pet-friendly emergency shelters in your area before a hurricane strikes. Additionally, you may also want to check with hotels and motels in the area, as some may accept pets during emergency situations.

In conclusion, a hurricane can be a dangerous and stressful time for both you and your pet. By preparing in advance and having a plan in place, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your furry companion during the storm. Remember to secure your home, have enough supplies for a week, and know where to go in case of evacuation. Make sure to research and have a list of pet-friendly emergency shelters in your area. With proper preparation and a well-thought-out plan, you and your pet can weather the storm safely.

Pet-Friendly Hurricane Shelter Palm Beach County, FL

The Pet-Friendly Shelter is located inside the West Boynton Recreational Center at 6000 Northtree Blvd., Lake Worth, FL 33463, and is only available to Palm Beach County residents who reside in a mandatory evacuation zone, in a mobile home, or in sub-standard housing. Proof of residency will be required.

All pets must be accompanied by only one owner, who will stay inside the Pet-Friendly Shelter. All other family members will need to stay at the adjacent human shelter, Park Vista High School. Pets will be housed in a separate area away from where people are sheltered; livestock and reptiles will not be accepted.

Space is limited, and all food will be provided, so please limit personal belongings to only those essential items that you will need during your stay.

Suggested items for people include:

  • Personal cot or mat for sleeping and light bedding (cots and blankets are NOT provided)
  • Change of clothes for 2-3 days
  • Any necessary medications and a small container to keep them cold if necessary
  • Toiletry items: toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary wipes, etc. (there are no showers on site)
  • Any special diet items
  • Chargers for your essential electronics
  • Small entertainment items, such as books, board games, cards, etc.

Suggested items for pets include:

  • Carrier for cats/ leash and collar for dogs
  •  Pet food for 3-5 days
  • Food and water bowls
  • Light bedding for kennel where pet will be housed
  • Any necessary medications for your pet
  • Toys, chew bones, or other small enrichment items to keep your pet calm.
  • ID tags with name and phone number attached to pet’s collar or harness.

What to expect during your stay:

  • All food and beverages for people will be provided
  • You will be staying inside the gymnasium during your stay and sleeping on the gymnasium floor
  • This is a disaster relief shelter and should be used as a last-resort option
  • There will be designated times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • There will be designated times for you to care for and visit with your pet as they will be housed in a separate area – all animals rooms close down at night for the pets and staff to rest
  • Small personal coolers are allowed to keep small items or personal medication cold, but you will not have access to a refrigerator or the ability to bring a large cooler

This is an animal shelter, barking, meowing, and other animal noises are expected.

Staff will be available on-site to answer any additional questions.

To Register for the Pet Friendly Shelter, please visit: http://discover.pbcgov.org/publicsafety/animalcare/Pages/Hurricane.aspx

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *