Cyclone preparation - keeping your animals safe and happy during extreme weather

Preparing for a cyclone when you have dogs and horses requires careful planning to ensure their safety. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:

General Preparation (for all animals)

  • Microchip & ID Tags: Ensure your pets and horses have up-to-date identification (microchips, name tags etc).

  • Emergency Kit: Pack an emergency kit with food, water, medications, first aid supplies, leads, halters, and any important documents.

  • Evacuation Plan: Identify pet-friendly shelters, boarding facilities, or safe evacuation areas for horses.

  • Emergency Contacts: Have contact details for veterinarians, animal shelters, and neighbours who can help.

For Dogs

Before the Cyclone

  • Safe Shelter: Keep dogs inside in a secure, enclosed area away from windows.

  • Take the Lead: Keep a lead ready in case of evacuation.

  • Provide Comfort: Allow them to cuddle up with you and, if crate trained, cover it (ensuring suitable ventilation) to give them a safe place to hide. If they choose to shelter in a place that would normally be out of bounds, cut them some slack!

  • Toilet Plan: Prepare an indoor toilet area if the weather makes it unsafe to go outside.

During the Cyclone

  • Keep Them Calm: STAY WITH THEM to provide comfort and reassurance. DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, LEAVE THEM OUTSIDE.

  • Avoid Outside Exposure: Keep doors and windows shut to prevent injury from debris.

After the Cyclone

  • Check for Hazards: Watch for broken glass, debris, or flooded areas before letting your dog outside.

  • Monitor for Stress: Signs of trauma include excessive barking, hiding, or loss of appetite.

For Horses

Before the Cyclone

  • Evacuation Plan: If possible, move horses to a safe, high-ground location before the cyclone hits.

  • Shelter Considerations:

    • If evacuating, leave early (at least 48 hours before).

    • If staying, house horses in a strong, enclosed stable block or a large open pasture without hazards (no barbed wire or loose fencing). Ideally keep them in a familiar place where they’ll feel more at home, and make sure they have - or can see - company.

  • Identification: Mark horses with:

    • A label with your contact details tied around their neck with baling twine (nothing stronger) or braided into their mane or tail.

    • A livestock marker (write your phone number on their body).

    • A microchip or brand.

    • DO NOT LEAVE THEM HALTERED OR RUGGED as this can present a significant risk if they escape.

  • Stock Up on Supplies: Have at least 5-7 days’ worth of food, water, and emergency medical supplies.

During the Cyclone

  • If Stabled: Secure all doors and windows and avoid loose items.

  • If in an Open Paddock: Ensure the area is free of debris, power lines, and sharp objects if possible. Ideally keep them with company in a familiar paddock.

After the Cyclone

  • Check for Injuries: Inspect horses for cuts, lameness, or stress.

  • Water & Food Safety: Avoid contaminated water sources; provide fresh, clean water.

  • Check Fencing: Ensure enclosures are secure before turning them out.

Proper planning is key to keeping your animals safe. Good luck!

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EmergenciesPadfoot Team