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!