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Australian Dog Lover
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As heavy rain, flash flooding, and damaging winds continue to impact parts of New South Wales, the safety of our pets is a top priority. With the NSW SES responding to hundreds of weekend requests for help—including multiple flood rescues—pet owners are being urged to act now.
Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is reminding owners that a simple plan can prevent a "heart-breaking emergency."
“Floodwater isn’t just ‘rainwater’ — it can carry sewage, chemicals, sharp debris, and disease,” says Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia.
Here is the essential checklist for keeping your furry family members safe.
1. Beware the Water: The Risk of Disease
It might look like just a puddle, but floodwater hides invisible dangers.
“Floodwater can be contaminated with animal urine and runoff, increasing the risk of leptospirosis,” Crighton warns. This is a serious bacterial disease that dogs can contract through contaminated water or mud.
- Avoid the puddles: Keep dogs away from stormwater run-off, flooded parks, creeks, and beaches after heavy rain.
- Post-walk hygiene: If your dog does get wet, rinse their paws and belly with clean water immediately. Dry them thoroughly and monitor for signs of illness. Always call your vet if you are concerned.
- Blue-green algae: While navigating rising waters, pet owners must also be vigilant about hidden dangers; stagnant flood runoff can quickly lead to
deadly blue-green algae blooms
2. Pack Your "Grab-and-Go" Kit
Don’t wait for an evacuation order to start searching for your dog's essentials. Many pet experts suggest having a dedicated emergency pack ready today.
Your kit should include:
✔️ 3–7 days of food, bowls, and bottled water.
✔️ Medications and copies of prescriptions.
✔️ Leash, harness, and a spare lead (plus a cat carrier if needed).
✔️ ID tags, vaccination records, a recent photo, and microchip details.
✔️ Bedding, towels, waste bags, and a litter tray.
✔️ A muzzle (only if your dog is already muzzle-trained) for stressed/injured handling.
3. Safe at Home: Hazards and Wildlife
When the wind picks up, the safest place for a pet is inside. Stress and noise can cause even the calmest dogs to bolt or hide.
- Never tether your pet: Rising water can trap tethered pets in minutes. Never leave a dog tied up outside "to guard the house" during a storm.
- Wildlife displacement: Floods drive snakes and other animals into drier residential areas. Supervise backyard time and keep dogs on-lead in washed-out areas.
- Hidden debris: Be wary of nails, glass, fencing wire, and fallen powerlines in the aftermath of a storm.
4. If You Need to Evacuate
The golden rule is to evacuate early. Never wait until roads are cut off or drive through floodwater.
“If staying with family or friends, confirm pets can come too,” Crighton says. “If you may need temporary accommodation, identify pet-friendly options now.”
The golden rule is to evacuate early. Never wait until roads are cut off or drive through floodwater.
“If staying with family or friends, confirm pets can come too,” Crighton says. “If you may need temporary accommodation, identify pet-friendly options now.”
5. What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing
If your pet disappears during a storm, act fast and go wide—but only when it is safe to do so.
- Search nearby first: Frightened pets often hide under decks, sheds, or in neighbours’ bushes.
- Contact authorities: Call local vets, council pounds, and shelters.
- Update details: Ensure your pet’s microchip contact details are current.
- Use scent cues: Place familiar bedding or worn clothing outside (under cover) to help them find their way home.
- Digital SOS: Post a clear recent photo and key details (name, suburb, temperament) to local community groups.
“Microchips and clear ID tags are the difference between a missing pet and a fast reunion,” Crighton says. “After severe weather, pets can turn up kilometres away.”
Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
PetSure Extends Coverage for NSW Rainfall – Learn how your insurance policy might support you during severe weather.
Leptospirosis Risk & Flood Warning for Sydney Pet Owners – A deep dive into the bacterial risks found in floodwaters.
