Hurricane season in South Florida runs from June through November, and Broward County is no stranger to the threat of major storms. For most families, the emergency planning conversation eventually comes down to the same uncomfortable question: what do we do with the pets?
Scrambling to answer that question when a storm is 48 hours out is not the time. This guide covers the practical steps you can take right now — before hurricane season — so that if the call to evacuate comes, you're ready to move.
Build Your Pet Go-Bag Now
A pet go-bag should be packed and accessible year-round, not assembled when a watch is issued. For each pet in your household, you'll want:
Food and Water
Medical and Identification
Comfort and Safety
Microchipping and Tags
If your pet isn't microchipped, do it now — not when a storm is approaching. Make sure the chip is registered and your contact information is current. Tags should have your cell phone number, not a landline.
Pet-Friendly Shelters in Broward County
Broward County's emergency management has made strides in accommodating pets during evacuations, but planning ahead is essential.
Keep a list of your options in your go-bag so you're not searching on your phone in the middle of an evacuation.
Preparing Horses for a Hurricane
Horse owners in Southwest Ranches, Davie, and other equestrian areas of Broward County face a different set of decisions. Trailering horses out of harm's way is often the safest option, but it requires planning well in advance of the storm.
Before Hurricane Season
Storm Prep for Horses That Can't Evacuate
If evacuation is not possible, the general guidance in South Florida (and this is a decision to make with your vet and local emergency resources) is that horses may be safer turned out in a large, open pasture away from trees and structures than confined in a stall that could collapse. This is counterintuitive but widely supported in post-storm analyses.
After the Storm
Wait for conditions to be declared safe before bringing horses back in or assessing pastures. Check fence lines carefully before turnout, and inspect for debris, downed power lines, and structural damage before allowing horses near structures.
Sheryl Is Here Before, During, and After the Storm
Hoof & Paw serves families across Broward County — including those with horses in Southwest Ranches. Sheryl can help with pre-storm checks, feeding and care if you need to evacuate without your animals, and post-storm welfare checks once conditions are safe.
If you want to talk through your hurricane plan for your pets or horses, give Sheryl a call at **(954) 807-1716**. Getting a plan in place now is the best thing you can do for your animals before the season starts.