Summer Power Outages & Pets: When the Lights Go Out in the Connecticut Shoreline

Power Outages & Pets

Connecticut’s vibrant seasons are a source of pride for residents and a draw for visitors. However, our beautiful summers can also bring unpredictable thunderstorms and power outages. While frustrating for humans, these outages can be especially challenging for families with pets and children. Here in the Connecticut Shoreline, knowing how to prepare for and handle summer power outages & pets is key to making it through comfortably until power is restored.

Temperature-Related Discomfort

As we’ve shared in previous blogs, pets don’t handle extreme summer temperatures well. Connecticut summers can be hot, and a lack of air conditioning can quickly turn your home into a sauna. High indoor temperatures can lead to overheating, panting, lethargy, and even heatstroke. Cold-blooded animals like reptiles require a stable temperature; even more so for those with fur and hair.

Power outages don’t just happen in the summer! Because extremely low temperatures can also affect our pets – primarily aquarium pets like fish and turtles –  having an emergency plan for temperature-sensitive critters and back-up power source is critical to their safety and well-being during a power outage. For dogs and cats, having extra blankets, outerwear, and heat packs may be smart when temps drop below freezing.

Disruptions in Routine

Disruptions in a pet’s routine can be stressful. Power outages often mean that the lights are off when they are usually on and humans are home when they are usually gone, which can confuse animals. Additionally, the lack of familiar hums from appliances like fans, fridges, and HVAC units can create an unusual silence, which can cause anxiety in senior pets or those that are particularly sensitive to noises and changes in their environment.

Preparing for Power Outages & Pets

Preparation is key! Here’s how Connecticut pet owners can be ready for a power outage in the following ways:

At Home

• Emergency Planning: Take advantage of Connecticut’s helpful Guide to Emergency Preparedness here.
• Cooling Solutions: Invest in battery-operated fans or consider a portable generator specifically designed for powering essential appliances during an outage. Filling shallow pans or kiddie pools with cool water (not ice cold) can provide a refreshing spot for your pet to dip its paws or lie down in.
• Lights: Have flashlights and battery-powered lanterns readily available. This not only helps you navigate the darkness but also provides a familiar source of light for your pet. Don’t forget to grab up lots of replacement batteries.
• Phone Chargers: Your smart phone is a lifeline during a power outage or other weather emergency or storm aftermath. For this reason, having a power pack that can keep at least one phone charged at all times is key to remaining connected and informed until power is restored.

In the Community

• Utilities: Download the apps of your local utility companies to receive outage updates and estimated restoration times.
• Community Resources: During prolonged outages, some towns in Connecticut open cooling centers for residents. Research if any of them allow leashed or restrained pets.
• News: Stay informed by following local news stations like The Connecticut Post and NBC Connecticut on social media and media apps.

For Pets

• Hydration is Key: Always keep extra water on hand for the whole family – pets included. Consider using ice packs (wrapped in a towel) or ice cubes to keep a bowl of water cool in high heat. Monitor them for signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting or lethargy and contact your vet if you have concerns.
• Snacks & Comfort Items: Kong toys stuffed with healthy treats can keep your pet occupied. They are a great way to use up low-fat Greek yogurt before perishables go bad. For some pets, familiar toys and snuggle blankets can provide comfort during a stressful time.
• Entertainment: Playtime, enrichment toys, and puzzles are a great way to engage pets during a power outage – after all, time is on your side when you’re stuck at home after a storm.
• Medical Needs: If your pet relies on refrigerated medicine or electrical equipment for medical reasons, consult your veterinarian about a backup plan and learn how long the medication can be at room temperature before its efficacy wanes.
• Pet ID: Ensure your pet has a collar with a current ID tag in case they escape or get lost during the outage. We recommend microchipping your pet for added security. Make sure your microchip contact information is up-to-date.
• Stay Calm: Pets pick up on our emotions. Keep your voice calm and reassuring to minimize your pet’s anxiety. Once the power returns, take some time to let your pet readjust to the normal routine.

By planning ahead, you can ensure that your furry, feathered, and finned family members stay safe and comfortable during a power outage. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your pets happy and healthy, even when the lights go out in the Connecticut Shoreline.

At Shoreline Happy Paws, our services usually continue as scheduled during power outages – weather permitting. The challenge we often face during power outages is entry into your home when accessing via garage codes, for example. For this reason, we require keys or codes that are not power-dependent from all clients.

New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your pet(s) up for success. Existing clients may book cat sitting services by logging in to your client profile.

Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:

• Old Saybrook
• Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
• Deep River
• Chester
• Westbrook
• Clinton
• Old Lyme
• East Lyme
• Niantic

Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:

• Lyme and Madison
• Waterford, New London, Groton
• Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank