As Florida enters another hurricane season, state veterinary professionals should do everything in their power to stay ahead of the impact.
The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which began June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, is predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to be above average in terms of activity, with a 60% chance of an above-normal season. With that in mind, the message is clear for veterinary professionals: Now is the time to prepare. Let’s take a deeper look at the forecast and the practical steps veterinary teams should take to stay ready, resilient and responsive.
BEFORE THE STORM
With another potentially dangerous season ahead, it’s essential that every veterinary clinic in Florida adopt a comprehensive and well-rehearsed emergency response plan.
DEVELOP AND REVIEW EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS
Every veterinary practice team should create, review and maintain a disaster response plan that is customized to its location, size and patient volume. This plan should include local evacuation routes and shelter-in-place protocols, staff contacts and a phone tree system, and reliable communication strategies for both clients and staff. Additionally, it should outline specific protocols for emergency treatment and animal transfer to ensure continuity of care during crises. To remain effective and relevant, this plan should be reviewed and updated annually — and at least three months before hurricane season.
STOCKPILE EMERGENCY SUPPLIES
Maintaining a well-organized inventory of essential items is critical for emergency management in any veterinary practice. This inventory should include fully stocked first-aid kits, portable kennels for animal transport, adequate food and water supplies, and backup medications with appropriate backup refrigeration plans. Personal protective equipment
for staff and battery-powered tools such as flashlights and medical devices also are essential.
Equally important is ensuring that backup power sources, such as generators, are tested regularly and remain easily accessible when needed.
EDUCATE YOUR STAFF AND COMMUNITY
Regular drills and workshops are essential to ensure every staff member understands their specific role during an emergency. Equally important is encouraging personal preparedness among team members, as their ability to perform at work depends heavily on the safety and security of their own families. Community engagement and communication also play a vital role in disaster preparedness. Collaborating with local emergency management teams, animal control and shelters helps establish reliable communication channels and coordinated response strategies — connections that become invaluable when time is critical. Additionally, veterinarians have a unique opportunity to educate the public.
WHEN THE STORM HITS
Start by conducting an initial check-in with your team to confirm that everyone is safe, sheltered and has access to necessary resources. If you have the technological capacity to work remotely, it’s best to update your practice’s website and social media platforms to keep clients informed. It’s also wise to reassess your current supplies — there may be critical items you can share with colleagues or team members who have been more severely impacted by the disaster. Compassion and connectivity within your team can make all the difference in navigating the aftermath together.
POST-STORM RESPONSE
The responsibilities of veterinary professionals extend far beyond the clinic walls, especially in the wake of a disaster. If conditions allow, begin by assessing your practice for damage and taking a detailed inventory; contact your insurance provider promptly to initiate the claims process. Reaching out to local shelters and animal services is also crucial, as coordination is key for effective search, rescue and treatment efforts.
If your clinic has been significantly impacted, consider applying for disaster relief. The Florida Veterinary Medical Association offers relief funds for selected clinics, and additional national support is available through the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Remember, information is power, especially when it comes to hurricanes. The following organizations offer toolkits, checklists and training programs:
- Florida State Agricultural Response Team:
FloridaSART.org - Florida Division of Emergency Management:
FloridaDisaster.org - Florida Veterinary Medical Association: FVMA.org
- American Veterinary Medical Association: AVMA.org
*Bookmark these resources and integrate their materials into your preparedness plans.
A COLLECTIVE COMMITMENT
Preparedness is not a one-time checklist. It is a mindset and a commitment to resilience — for us, our patients, our clients and our communities.
When veterinarians prepare, communities are safer. We cannot prevent hurricanes, but we can mitigate their impact through planning, partnerships, and purpose. As we face another active hurricane season, let’s work together — not only as caregivers, but as educators and volunteers in our communities. Review your emergency plan. Restock your disaster kit. Talk to your team. Share tips with your clients. Above all, stay safe. Stay prepared. And continue to be the steady hand in the storm that your community counts on.