Hurricane Evacuation with Pets: A Pinellas County Guide

If the 2024 hurricane season taught Tampa Bay anything, it's that waiting until the last minute costs lives. Hurricanes Milton and Helene displaced thousands of families across Pinellas County — and for pet owners, the chaos was compounded by one agonizing question: what do I do with my animals?

Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Here's how to prepare before the next storm names start rolling across the Weather Channel.

A sturdy carrier is non-negotiable. Every pet needs their own. (Photo: Pexels)

Step 1: Know Your Evacuation Zone

Pinellas County uses evacuation zones A through E, with Zone A being the first to evacuate. You can check your zone at kyz.pinellas.gov. If you're in a mobile home, you're always required to evacuate regardless of zone.

Sign up for Alert Pinellas at pinellascounty.org/alertpinellas to get emergency notifications by text, email, or phone. A battery-powered NOAA weather radio is also worth the $30 — it works when the power and cell towers don't.

Step 2: Pre-Register for a Pet-Friendly Shelter

Pinellas County operates pet-friendly shelters during evacuations, but you must pre-register — you can't just show up. Visit the Pinellas County Emergency Management site to register your pet. Mobile home residents are given priority.

Here's the catch: pet-friendly shelters are basic. Think school gymnasium floors with crates beside you. They're a last resort, not a hotel. You and your pets will handle the stress far better if you have a backup plan.

If you're registered for a special needs shelter and have a pet, call Pinellas County Animal Services at (727) 582-2600 to make arrangements.

Have a plan for transportation — roads may be closed or flooded. (Photo: Pexels)

Step 3: Book a Pet-Friendly Hotel

Several hotel chains are consistently pet-friendly, including La Quinta, Motel 6, Red Roof Inn, Red Lion, and Best Western. Book early — rooms disappear fast when a storm track shifts.

Useful search sites for pet-friendly lodging along your evacuation route:

• BringFido.com
• PetsWelcome.com
• DogFriendly.com
• Airbnb (filter for "pets allowed")

Most pet-friendly shelters and hotels require up-to-date vaccine records. Print copies now and keep them in a waterproof bag.

Step 4: Build Your Pet Emergency Kit

Don't wait for a storm watch. Assemble this kit now and store it in a grab-and-go container.

Cats need carriers too — no exceptions. (Photo: Pexels)

Step 5: Prepare Your Home

If you're sheltering in place (outside evacuation zones), choose an interior room with no windows. Bring crates, food, water, and your pet go-bag.

Pro tip from SPCA Tampa Bay: A small plastic kiddie pool lined with sod makes an excellent indoor bathroom for dogs when going outside isn't safe. Start acclimating your dog to it before storm season so it's not a surprise during a hurricane.

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