How to Keep Your Pets Safe During Heavy Rains and Strong Winds in Sydney & NSW
Discover practical tips from All Furry Tales to protect your furry companions during the intense wet and windy weather sweeping across New South Wales. Learn how to keep pets calm, dry, and secure with easy, effective strategies.
7/2/20253 min read
With Sydney and parts of NSW bracing for days of relentless rain, flash flooding, and powerful winds, pet parents need to stay vigilant. While humans understand bad weather, our four-legged friends can feel confused, scared, and even unsafe.
Whether you’re caring for a wagging tail or a purring fluffball, here’s your go-to guide for keeping pets protected and stress-free during this wild weather 🌧️💨🐕🐈.
🏡 1. Bring Pets Inside Before Storms Escalate
Don’t wait for the rain to start pounding. As soon as the Bureau of Meteorology issues alerts:
Move pets indoors—especially outdoor cats, dogs, and small animals.
Choose a dry, windowless room with cozy bedding.
Avoid tiled or wet areas that can get slippery and cold.
Add comfort: soft music, familiar blankets, and calming toys.
🐇 For rabbits or guinea pigs, bring hutches inside or under covered areas protected from drafts and water runoff.
🎒 2. Build a “Wet Weather” Pet Emergency Kit
Flash flooding and power outages are common in NSW storms. Prepare a waterproof tote or crate with:
✅ 3–5 days of food in sealed bags
✅ Bottled water
✅ Medications & vet records in ziplock bags
✅ Towel or pet raincoat
✅ Secure carrier or leash
✅ Waste bags / portable litter tray
✅ Updated ID tag & recent photo of your pet
📍Keep this kit near your family’s emergency supplies.
🔐 3. Prevent Escapes in Windy Weather
Sudden gusts can scare pets, causing them to flee:
Always use a leash or secure carrier when taking pets outside.
Double-check fences, gates, and balcony railings for damage or loose parts.
Never leave pets tied up outdoors—high winds can cause branches to fall or fencing to collapse.
Ensure pets are microchipped and their ID tags are current.
🌬️ 4. Calm Pets During Wind Gusts and Rain Noise
Strong winds cause trees to sway, gates to rattle, and doors to slam—all of which can trigger anxiety in pets.
Try these calming strategies:
Close windows, blinds, and doors to reduce outside noise and flashes.
Use white noise or calming playlists on YouTube or Spotify.
Offer a safe space like under a desk, behind a couch, or in their crate.
Consider calming wraps like ThunderShirts(Click here to get this) or vet-recommended CBD treats.
If your pet experiences extreme fear, consult your vet about anxiety support.
📍 5. Avoid Walks or Car Travel in Peak Weather
Skip walks during intense wind or heavy rain alerts. Instead:
Engage pets with indoor games, snuffle mats, or treat puzzles.
For toileting, guide dogs to covered areas and wipe paws after.
Avoid driving unless necessary—rising waters and fallen trees are hazards.
🆘 6. Know Where to Go if You Need to Leave
If evacuation becomes necessary due to flash flooding:
Confirm pet-friendly shelters or hotels near your suburb.
Contact local emergency vet clinics ahead of time.
Ask trusted friends or family if they can house you and your pet temporarily.
📝 Write this info down or save it on your phone.
✅ 7. After the Storm: Safety Checks Matter
Once the worst is over:
Inspect your yard or balcony for broken glass, nails, or fallen wires.
Don’t let pets roam unsupervised—soaked soil, unstable fences, or hidden dangers may still be present.
Look out for lingering signs of stress: pacing, hiding, whining, or refusing food.
Getting back into a regular routine with love and calm helps pets feel safe again.
📲 Stay Weather Aware with Apps
Download these to stay ahead of the storm:
BOM Weather App – Real-time updates for your suburb
NSW SES – Alerts & safety information
Pet First Aid by Red Cross – Quick pet emergency tips
🐾 Final Thoughts
NSW’s wild weather may be out of your control—but your pet’s comfort and safety isn’t.
By preparing a safe environment, keeping them dry and calm, and having a backup plan in place, you’re doing everything you can to be the calm in your pet’s storm. 💙
Next time the wind howls or the skies flood, your pet will know: you’ve got them covered. 🐕🐈🌧️
