- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
When the power goes out, pet parents face more than just a minor inconvenience. You also have to maintain a safe, comfortable environment for your pet.
If your power does go out, the first thing to do is check how long you might be without electricity. Then, list all pet appliances that rely on power, like heated tanks, automatic feeders, and water fountains, along with air conditioning and electric heat. This information will help you make a plan of action.
Read on for tips on keeping pets comfortable during a power outage, whether you’re dealing with extreme heat or a winter deep freeze. We’ve covered how to keep your pets safe, warm or cool, and fed without electricity, plus when to consider emergency boarding.
Safety Tips During Power Outages
There are a few safety tips that apply to any power outage.
“Always be sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date,” says Dr. Katie Merkatoris, a veterinarian with JustAnswer. “This includes phone numbers, addresses, and rabies vaccination tags.”
Outdated information can mean you may not be reunited with your pet in an emergency, she says. As an emergency vet, she often treats lost pets who have a microchip with incorrect contact information.
“These pets unfortunately have to be turned over to a humane society or shelter in hopes their owners can later be found,” Dr. Merkatoris says.
Emergency kit checklist
Dr. Matthew Murdoch, veterinarian and founder of Ferndale Kennels and Travel Pet Relocation Services, recommends preparing an emergency kit that includes:
- 3–5 days of food and water, plus bowls
- Spare medications
- Printed medical records and microchip details
- A sturdy leash, harness, or carrier
- Poop bags or litter
- A blanket or a familiar item for comfort
- A flashlight or headlamp
It’s also important to consider the safety of using any backup items around your pets.
Battery-operated space heaters and flashlights are safer for warmth and light than candles or open flames, says Dr. Ambika Vaid, Integrative Veterinarian and Veterinarian Advisor to Badlands Ranch.
If you’re relying on a generator, always keep it outdoors.
“Never run generators indoors or near enclosed areas where pets are sleeping,” Dr. Murdoch says. “Store fuel in secured, ventilated areas away from where pets can chew, knock things over, or get exposed to spills.”
Keeping Pats Warm Without Electricity
During a power outage in cold weather, these tips can help your pets stay warm:
- Put a pet sweater on them or provide plenty of blankets for them to snuggle in.
- Cuddle with your pet to share your body warmth and soothe them with your presence.
- Block off unused rooms to keep the space warmer.
- Move crates or beds to the warmest part of your home.
Keeping Pets Cool Without Electricity
During a power outage in hot weather, these tips can help your pets stay cool:
- Remove blankets from crates.
- Provide clean, fresh water.
- Use battery-operated fans.
- Sit in your car and run the air conditioning for brief periods.
- If it’s cooler outside than in, set your dog up with a wading pool in a shady spot.
- Place damp towels or cooling mats on the floor for pets to lie on.
- Move your pet to a cool tiled area if possible.
Dr. Vaid also recommends watching out for early signs of heat stress, including excessive panting and difficulty getting comfortable.
If you’re concerned your cat or dog may be overheating, head to the emergency vet right away.
Tips for Fishes and Reptiles
Fish and reptiles are especially vulnerable to power outages because their environments typically rely on heat lamps, water pumps, and filtration systems.
You can prepare for a power outage beforehand by investing in a backup power device designed specifically for aquariums and vivariums, says Dr. Anthony Guerino, Medical Director at VCA Animal Hospitals.
If you don’t have one of these, here’s how to care for fish and reptiles during power outages.
Warm weather
“In warm weather, most fish and reptiles can go several days without a heat source and not get into problems,” Dr. Guerino explains.
He recommends monitoring your reptile by watching out for open mouth breathing or checking the temperature using an infrared thermometer.
Cold weather
During a power outage in cold weather, Dr. Guerino recommends insulating the outside of the tank with blankets, towels, or cardboard. “Chemical handheld heating devices, available at most outdoor sporting stores, can also help.”
During cold-weather power outages, never place reptiles directly on heat sources—this may lead to thermal burns, according to Dr. Guerino.
You can also use your body heat to keep reptiles warm.
“Place them in a pillowcase and keep them under your coat, for a constant 98.6°heat source,” Dr. Guerino says.
When the power does come back on, Dr. Guerino recommends checking water quality and making any adjustments as necessary.
When To Consider Emergency Boarding
If you suspect a power outage may last longer than 12 hours, emergency boarding is a good idea, especially in extreme situations.
“It’s a responsible option, especially for pets with chronic illnesses, seniors, or young animals. Better a few days safe than risking complications at home,” Dr. Murdoch says.
He suggests considering these factors when deciding whether or not to board your pet:
- Indoor temperature extremes
- Length of the power outage
- The health status of your pet, plus their age and body condition
- Your pet’s breed. Flat-faced dog breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs may struggle in extreme heat without air conditioning.
- Your ability to provide hands-on care and attention
“If you’re struggling to keep your home safe and comfortable, boarding can offer stability, proper care, and peace of mind,” Dr. Murdoch says.
