Living in Edmond, Oklahoma, means being prepared for volatile weather. We live in the heart of Tornado Alley. While you likely have a plan for your family, your four-legged friends need a strategy too. Dogs often sense atmospheric pressure changes before we do. They may become anxious, hide, or pace.
Oklahoma Shelters provides high-quality protection for families across the state. We know that a pet is a family member. Protecting them requires more than just luck. It requires preparation, the right equipment, and a safe place to go when the sirens sound.
Understanding the Risk in Edmond
Edmond has a history of significant storm activity. High winds and debris pose the greatest threat to animals. If a dog is left outside or in a room with windows, the risk of injury is high. Because Oklahoma weather moves fast, you often have only minutes to react.
Create a Pet Emergency Kit
You should keep a “go-bag” specifically for your dog near your storm shelter. When the alert is issued, you won’t have time to gather supplies.
Include these items in your pet emergency kit:
-
Leash and Collar: Always keep a spare set in the kit.
-
Non-perishable Food: A three-day supply of kibble or canned food.
-
Water: At least one gallon specifically for your dog.
-
Medications: A week’s supply of any necessary prescriptions.
-
Medical Records: Proof of vaccinations in a waterproof bag.
-
Photos: A printed photo of you with your dog to prove ownership if you are separated.
-
Comfort Items: A favorite toy or a blanket that smells like home.
Identification is Vital
During a tornado, fences can blow down and doors can fly open. Many dogs get lost during the chaos of a storm.
-
Microchipping: Ensure your dog is microchipped. Keep your contact information updated with the provider.
-
ID Tags: Your dog should wear a collar with a visible ID tag at all times.
-
GPS Collars: Consider a GPS tracking collar for real-time location data.
Training for the Storm
Don’t wait for a real tornado to take your dog to the shelter. Dogs can be hesitant to enter underground spaces or small, dark rooms.
Shelter Drills
Practice “kennel up” or “shelter” commands. Lead your dog into your Oklahoma Shelters unit using high-value treats. Make the shelter a positive place. Do this weekly during the spring. This reduces the dog’s stress when a real emergency occurs.
Crate Training
If your dog is crate-trained, the crate can be a sanctuary. In a storm shelter, a crate prevents the dog from pacing or getting underfoot. It also protects them from falling objects if the shelter door is not fully secured.
Choosing the Right Shelter for Pet Owners
Not all storm shelters are created equal when it comes to pets. At Oklahoma Shelters, we offer various types of storm shelters to fit different needs.
Underground Garage Shelters
These are popular in Edmond. They save space by being installed flush with your garage floor. However, ensure your dog is comfortable walking over the metal lid. Use a rug or mat to help them feel more secure.
Above Ground Safety Rooms
For older dogs or those with mobility issues, an above-ground safe room is often better. There are no steep stairs to navigate. You can simply lead your dog inside and lock the door. Our safe rooms are tested to withstand EF5 winds.
Concrete Slope Front Shelters
If you have a large backyard, these offer plenty of room. The stairs are usually wider, making it easier to carry a small dog or lead a larger one down.
What to Do When the Sirens Sound
When a Tornado Warning is issued for Edmond, act immediately.
-
Bring Pets Inside: Do not wait for the rain to start.
-
Leash Your Dog: Even the most well-behaved dog may bolt if they hear a loud clap of thunder.
-
Go to the Shelter: Move to your Oklahoma Shelters unit immediately.
-
Stay Calm: Dogs mirror your emotions. If you panic, they will panic. Speak in a low, soothing voice.
During the Storm: Managing Anxiety
The sound of wind and debris hitting a shelter can be terrifying for an animal.
-
Pressure Wraps: Products like “ThunderShirts” apply gentle pressure to the dog’s body, which has a calming effect.
-
Distraction: Give them a long-lasting chew or a puzzle toy filled with peanut butter.
-
White Noise: If your shelter has power, a small fan or radio can help mask the sound of the storm.
Post-Storm Safety
The danger does not end when the tornado passes. The environment outside may be drastically changed.
-
Check for Debris: Look for downed power lines, sharp metal, and broken glass.
-
Keep Them Leashed: Scents and landmarks may be gone. A dog can easily become disoriented and wander off.
-
Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of stress or injury. If your dog is hiding or refusing to eat, contact a veterinarian.
High-Authority Resources for Pet Owners
To stay informed about weather patterns and general pet safety, visit these resources:
Why Edmond Chooses Oklahoma Shelters
We are located in Oklahoma City and service the entire state, including Edmond. We understand the local geology and the specific threats our weather poses. Our installations are quick, professional, and meet all FEMA standards.
We offer:
-
In-ground concrete shelters.
-
Underground garage shelters.
-
Steel safe rooms.
-
Customized solutions for large families and multiple pets.
Protecting your dog is part of being a responsible pet owner in Oklahoma. A storm shelter is an investment in your entire family’s safety.
The Importance of Professional Installation
A shelter is only as good as its installation. Oklahoma Shelters ensures that every unit is anchored correctly. This is vital in Edmond, where soil types can vary. We handle the heavy lifting so you can have peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions for Edmond Residents
Will my dog be scared in an underground shelter?
Most dogs feel safer in enclosed spaces during a storm. With proper training and a few treats, they will see the shelter as their safe spot.
Are above-ground safe rooms safe for pets?
Yes. Our steel safe rooms are designed to withstand extreme debris impact. They are excellent for dogs who cannot climb stairs.
How do I keep my shelter clean for my pets?
Keep a dedicated broom in the shelter. Store pet supplies in airtight plastic bins to prevent moisture or pests from getting into the food.
Can I install a shelter in an existing Edmond home?
Absolutely. We specialize in retrofitting shelters into existing garages or backyards.
Preparing for the Next Season
Oklahoma’s primary tornado season is spring, but storms can happen any time. Now is the time to audit your pet safety plan.
-
Check your emergency food expiration dates.
-
Test your shelter door and locks.
-
Schedule a practice drill with your dog today.
If you don’t have a shelter yet, don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon. The peace of mind you get from knowing your pets are safe is priceless.
Community Involvement in Edmond
Edmond is a dog-friendly community. From the local dog parks to the walking trails, we love our animals. Ensuring our pets survive the storm is a community-wide priority. Share your pet safety plan with neighbors. If you are away from home, have a trusted neighbor who has access to your shelter and knows where your dog is kept.
Final Thoughts on Pet Safety
Tornadoes are a reality of living in Oklahoma. However, they don’t have to be a tragedy. By combining a solid emergency plan with a professional storm shelter from Oklahoma Shelters, you protect your whole pack.
Dogs give us unconditional love. In return, we owe them a safe place to hide when the sky turns gray. Edmond residents have trusted us for years because we prioritize safety, quality, and local expertise.
Article Recap:
-
Prepare Early: Create a pet-specific emergency kit with food, water, and records.
-
Identification: Ensure your dog is microchipped and wears updated ID tags.
-
Practice: Run regular shelter drills so your dog is comfortable entering the unit.
-
Choose Wisely: Pick a shelter type (above-ground or underground) that fits your dog’s mobility.
-
Stay Calm: Your dog reacts to your stress; remain calm to keep them settled.
-
Post-Storm Care: Keep dogs leashed after a storm to avoid debris and disorientation.
Contact Oklahoma Shelters Today Ready to protect your family and your pets? Oklahoma Shelters is the premier provider of storm shelters in Edmond and throughout Oklahoma.
Email us: sales@oklahomashelters.net
Don’t wait for the next siren. Secure your home today.
