A hurricane season plan for Houston dog owners

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and every Houston dog owner has lived through at least one storm that tested their plans. A hurricane plan for dogs in Houston doesn't need to be complicated, but it does need to exist before the cone shows up on the news. The quiet months after the season ends are the best time to put it together. Here's a practical checklist you can set up once and refresh each spring.

Start with the risks that matter in Houston

Hurricanes bring three different problems, and your plan should cover each:

• Storm surge along the coast and bays, which drives most official evacuation orders.
• Flooding from heavy rain, which can hit neighborhoods far from the coast. Hurricane Harvey in 2017 flooded homes across the Houston area.
• Long power outages. Hurricane Beryl in 2024 left large parts of the region without power for days, in the middle of a Houston summer.

Find out whether your zip code is in an evacuation zone and whether your street tends to flood. Local emergency management offices for the City of Houston and your county publish this information. Rules and maps change, so check with them directly each season.

Step 1: Get your dog's records in order

If you need to evacuate, board or visit an unfamiliar vet, you'll want proof of your dog's health and identity fast.

• Vaccine records, including Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella
• Your vet's name and phone number
• A list of medications with doses
• Recent photos of your dog, including any distinctive markings
• Microchip number and the registry it's listed with

Keep copies on your phone, in a cloud folder, and on paper in a zip-top bag in your go-kit.

Step 2: Check ID and microchip

Dogs get loose during storms. Fences blow down, gates get left open and frightened dogs bolt.

• Make sure your dog wears a collar with an ID tag showing your current cell number.
• Confirm the microchip is registered and the contact info is current. Ask your vet to scan it at the next visit.
• Add a second contact, such as a relative out of town, in case local phones are down.

Step 3: Pack a dog go-kit

Store it somewhere you can grab it quickly.

Check expiration dates on food and medications when you refresh the kit.

Step 4: Decide where your dog will go

Plan for more than one option.

Evacuating with your dog

If you evacuate, take your dog with you. Before the season, make a short list of pet-friendly hotels or friends and family inland who can host you both. Some public shelters accept pets, but rules and space vary. Confirm with local officials when an evacuation is announced.

Boarding before the storm

Some families board their dog when they evacuate somewhere that can't take pets, or when the dog's needs make a long, hot drive risky. If boarding is part of your plan:

• Ask your boarding facility now how they handle storm days.
• Keep vaccines current through the whole season so you're never blocked by an expired record.
• Book as early as you can. When a storm is coming, many families have the same idea.
• During severe weather, call ahead to check availability before you drive over.

At Pawliday Inn, boarding is staffed 24/7, and overnight guests get breakfast and dinner, three scheduled potty breaks and free yard play. Our dog boarding in Houston page explains how stays work, and our packing list for dog boarding helps you get out the door quickly. You can reach us at (346) 522 4472.

Sheltering in place

If you stay home, set up a safe interior room for your dog away from windows. Keep the go-kit in that room. Fill extra water containers before the storm in case water service is affected.

Step 5: Plan for heat after the storm

The days after a Houston hurricane are often hot, humid and without power. That's dangerous for dogs.

• Keep your dog in the coolest part of the house and limit activity.
• Have extra water available at all times.
• Walk only early and late, and watch for downed power lines, debris and standing water.
• Learn the signs of heat stress. Our guide on keeping dogs safe in Houston heat lists them.

If your dog shows signs of overheating, get them somewhere cool and call a vet right away.

Step 6: After the storm

• Check the yard and fence before letting your dog out alone. Look for gaps, broken boards, nails and debris.
• Keep dogs out of floodwater. It can carry sewage, chemicals, sharp objects and wildlife. Rinse your dog with clean water if they get wet, and call your vet if they swallow any or seem unwell.
• Watch for stress. Dogs may be clingy, restless or off their food for a few days. Keep routines as normal as you can.

Refresh your plan every spring

Put a reminder on your calendar for spring:

1. Update vaccine records and microchip info.
2. Swap out food, water and medications in the kit.
3. Confirm your evacuation options and boarding plans.
4. Check that your dog's ID tag is readable.

Updating vaccines now also keeps you ready for holiday travel. See our guide to vaccines required for boarding and daycare. Hours and rates are on our homepage.

Frequently asked questions

When is hurricane season in Houston?

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. Storms are possible outside those dates, but they're less common.

How much food should I keep for my dog?

Plan on at least a week or two of your dog's regular food, stored in a waterproof container. Rotate it so it stays fresh.

Can I bring my dog to an evacuation shelter?

Some shelters accept pets and some don't, and the rules can change from storm to storm. Check with local officials when evacuations are announced.

Should I board my dog during a hurricane?

It depends on your plans. If you're evacuating somewhere that doesn't take pets, boarding can be a good option. Book early, keep vaccines current, and call ahead during severe weather to confirm availability.