Preparing for Extreme Weather and Emergencies This Summer

Australia is bracing for hotter summers, sudden storms, flash floods and bushfires. These can disrupt our lives in a matter of hours – and our pets rely on us to be ready.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecast for summer 2025–2026, days and nights are likely to be warmer than average across most of Australia. Warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures also increase the risk of intense storms, tropical systems and heatwaves. Fire authorities are also warning of heightened bushfire risk in parts of WA, NSW and Victoria this summer.

Whether you are a shelter, pet owner or thinking of adding a furry companion to your life, a simple emergency plan, an emergency kit, and preparing plenty of pet food and water can make a world of difference.

In hot environments, pets can rapidly feel the effects of rising temperatures. All dogs and cats can be affected by heat stress, but pets that are very young, elderly, overweight, or have short, flat faces (brachycephalic breeds including English and French Bulldog, Boxer and Pug) are particularly susceptible. Some cat breeds are also considered brachycephalic, such as the Persian and Himalayan.

How Much Pet Food Should I Have in the Emergency Kit?

Pet food:
- As a rule of thumb, keep a minimum of 3 days’ supply of complete and balanced pet food.
- Ideally, store 5–7 days’ supply, especially in regional areas or places with limited access to shops or deliveries.
Tips:
- Choose shelf-stable pet food: dry kibble, cans or pouches.
- Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
- Pack the same food your pet normally eats to avoid stomach upsets.
- You might also consider increasing the wet food portion of your pet’s diet, as this provides extra moisture to help keep them hydrated (while still ensuring fresh drinking water is available).
- Include: a measuring cup, food and water bowls, any prescription diets, and at least a week of regular medications.
Water:
- Water is even more critical than food in an emergency.
- Aim for at least 3–5 days’ worth of water per pet.
- As a guide, most dogs and cats need about 50–60 ml of water per kg of bodyweight per day, and more in hot weather.
RSPCA and Animal Welfare Organisations will have free emergency kit bag – these will vary state by state.
In sustained disasters such as the 2019–2020 bushfires, relief agencies offered emergency pet food and supplies to people in need, often provided by PFIAA members. Knowing which agencies can supply products may also form a useful part of your pet’s emergency plan.

Responses According to the Type of Emergency You Are In

Different emergencies need slightly different actions, but a few fundamentals always apply:

Have a written emergency plan.
Keep your emergency kit ready to grab.
If authorities advise you to leave, leave early with your pets.

Heatwaves

Bring pets indoors to the coolest safe room.
Provide multiple water bowls, topped up often. Automatic water servers connected to your tap are another way to ensure water is available at all times.
Use fans or air-conditioning if available.
Never leave pets in cars – even for “just a minute”. Cars heat up dangerously fast, even with the windows open.

Bushfires & Heavy Smoke

Follow local warnings closely and leave early if fire danger is high in your area.
Keep pets indoors and contained (on leads or in carriers) so you can move quickly.
Prepare a list of pet-friendly evacuation options – friends, family, shelters or motels that accept animals.

Storms, Cyclones & Floods

Bring pets inside before the worst of the weather hits.
Move pet food, emergency kits and crates off the floor in case of flooding.
Keep dogs on leads and cats/small animals in secure carriers – frightened animals may bolt or hide.

Power Outages

Move pets to a room that stays cool in summer or warm in winter.
In heat: use cool mats or damp towels for dogs to lie on.
In cold: provide extra bedding, blankets or jackets.

Signs Your Pet Is Affected by Extreme Weather

Weather stress can show up differently depending on the situation. Here’s what to watch for:

Heat Stress / Heatstroke (common signs include):

Heavy or excessive panting
Drooling, or difficulty breathing
Bright red, blue or very pale gums
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Weakness, wobbliness, collapse or seizures
In cats, open-mouth breathing or rapid breathing is a red flag

Cold Stress / Hypothermia

Persistent shivering
Cold ears and paws
Lethargy, stiffness, reluctance to move
Confusion or collapse in severe cases

Storm & Noise Anxiety

Pacing, shaking or hiding
Excessive vocalising, scratching or destructive behaviour
Refusing to eat or drink

Smoke & Poor Air Quality

Coughing or sneezing
Red, irritated or watery eyes
Rapid, noisy or laboured breathing
Reluctance to exercise or move around

If you notice these signs, move your pet to the safest, calmest, most temperature-controlled space you have and keep a close eye on them and seek veterinary assistance if the symptoms persist.

When To Seek Veterinary Advice

If you’re unsure about calling a vet, it’s usually better to call sooner rather than later.

Seek urgent veterinary help if your pet:

Collapses, has a seizure, or can’t stand properly
Has fast, laboured or very noisy breathing
Has gums that are blue, grey or extremely pale
Is vomiting or has diarrhoea repeatedly
Seems confused, unsteady or unresponsive

Also call a vet if:

Your pet has been exposed to extreme heat (e.g. left in a hot room or car), even if they seem “ok” now.
They have been in heavy smoke for a prolonged period.
They have heart, lung or other medical conditions and are struggling in the weather.

Explain the emergency, your pet’s signs and any known exposure (heat, smoke, floodwater). The clinic can tell you how urgent it is and what to do next.