Rebuilding Pet Routines After a Hurricane: How to Get Back on Track with your precious furry one’s

Hurricanes disrupt not only our lives but also the routines our pets rely on. Dogs, in particular, are creatures of habit, and disruptions like storms, evacuations, and unsafe outdoor conditions can leave them stressed or anxious. As life returns to normal in Sarasota after a hurricane, it’s important to help your dog adjust and reestablish their routine.

At Wiggle Your Tail Pet Care, we’re here to help you guide your pet back to their regular routine, starting with walks, playtime, and other daily activities.

1. Check Your furry babies Physical and Emotional State

Before resuming your furry babies routine, take a moment to assess their well-being. The stress of the storm, changes in the home, or the need to evacuate could leave them feeling anxious. Signs of stress in pets include:

• Restlessness
• Excessive barking or whining
• Changes in appetite
• Shaking or hiding

Additionally, check your dog for any physical issues, like cuts or injuries, particularly if you had to walk through debris after the storm. If your dog seems off, give them some time to adjust, and if necessary, contact your veterinarian.

2. Resume Walks Safely and Slowly

Once your furry one seems ready, gradually resume their walks. Sarasota might still have debris, fallen branches, or damaged sidewalks, so safety is the priority.

• Stick to Safe Routes: Avoid areas with debris, standing water, or damaged infrastructure. Sarasota’s parks and paths will take time to clear, so start by walking in safer, open areas.
• Leash Up: Keep your dog on a leash, even if they’re normally fine off-leash. The aftermath of a hurricane can stir up unfamiliar scents or even displaced animals that might trigger unexpected behavior.
• Short Walks: Start with shorter walks if your dog hasn’t had their usual exercise. Gradually increase the length as you both get back into the routine.

At Wiggle Your Tail Pet Care, our experienced walkers can help you ease your dog back into regular walks. We know the Sarasota area well and can ensure that your pet gets safe, structured exercise.

3. Focus on Indoor Play if Outdoor Conditions Aren’t Safe

If your usual walking routes or play areas are still unsafe, focus on indoor activities to keep your precious one entertained and active. There are many ways to give your loved one exercise indoors:

• Tug-of-War: This simple game is great for keeping your dog physically and mentally engaged.
• Puzzle Toys: Toys that make your dog work for treats can keep them busy and mentally stimulated.
• Hide-and-Seek: Hide treats or toys around the house and encourage your dog to find them.
• Indoor Fetch: If you have space, you can play fetch in a hallway or larger room.

This will help your dog burn off some energy until it’s safe to resume regular outdoor play.

4. Reinstate Feeding Schedules

Consistency in feeding times is another key part of your dog’s routine. After a hurricane, feeding schedules may have been thrown off, but getting back on track helps your furry baby feel more secure. Return to regular mealtimes as soon as possible and ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water, especially if there were any water quality concerns post-storm.

If your pet’s diet changed during the storm, transition back to their regular food gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach.

5. Address Lingering Anxiety

Even after the storm passes, your dog might still feel anxious, especially if they’re sensitive to loud noises or disruptions. Here are a few ways to help them:

• Create a Calm Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your dog can relax.
• Stick to a Routine: The more predictable the day becomes, the quicker your dog will settle back into a rhythm.
• Calming Products: Consider using calming sprays or anxiety wraps if your dog continues to show signs of stress.

If their anxiety persists or worsens, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

6. Slowly Reintroduce Socialization

Once it’s safe, reintroduce your dog to normal socialization, whether that’s with other dogs at a park or during group walks. Start small and gradually increase the level of interaction.

At Wiggle Your Tail Pet Care, we offer both individual and group walking services, helping your dog get back to socializing in a controlled, safe environment. Group walks can also help dogs regain their confidence by interacting with other pets.

7. Monitor Your Precious Pet’s Behavior