Fact-checked October 31, 2026
In South Florida, a storm plan is part of loving your dog. A tiny pup like Demi depends on her people for everything, so here's how to be ready before the season starts.
Pack a pet kit
The CDC recommends a pet disaster kit with:
- About 2 weeks of food, water and any medicine
- Copies of vet records, including the rabies certificate
- Microchip details
- Recent photos of your pet (in case you get separated)
Palm Beach County's hurricane brochure also says to bring a labeled carrier and to keep the county license and rabies tags on the collar.
Palm Beach County's pet-friendly shelter
The county's pet-friendly hurricane shelter is at the West Boynton Recreation Center, 6000 Northtree Blvd, Lake Worth, according to the county brochure. Owners stay next door at Park Vista High School. Key points from the county:
- It's for residents in evacuation zones, mobile homes or substandard housing.
- It's meant as a last resort.
- Online pre-registration opens May 1 and doesn't guarantee a spot.
- Bring 5 days of food, water and medicine.
- Plan to leave 48 hours before the storm.
The county's message, in their own capital letters: "NEVER LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND!"
Questions? Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control: (561) 233-1200.
Tiny-dog extras
- Pack a cozy blanket and a favorite toy. Familiar smells help.
- Small dogs lose heat quickly, so bring a sweater for air-conditioned shelters.
- Keep meals on schedule: tiny puppies can get low blood sugar when meals are missed or they're stressed (see our puppy care guide).
Friendly info, not veterinary, medical or legal advice. Rules, hours and fees change, so check the official source, and always ask your own vet about your pup.
