Summer Power Outages & Pet Safety

Serving Ballston, Clarendon & Rosslyn | Family-Owned & Fear Free Certified® Since 2016

Summer in Northern Virginia often brings heatwaves and sudden storms that can lead to unexpected power outages. While inconvenient for people, these situations can quickly become dangerous for pets—especially seniors, flat-faced breeds, and those with medical needs.

At Pet Sitting 4 Comfort® (PS4C), we follow emergency planning guidelines recommended by PSI, NAPPS, PACCC, and Fear Free® to help ensure pets stay safe, cool, and comfortable—whether you're home or away.

Why Power Outages Can Be Dangerous for Pets

Pets are more vulnerable to environmental changes than humans. Without air conditioning or proper ventilation, indoor temperatures can rise quickly.

Common risks include:

• Heatstroke and dehydration

• Spoiled refrigerated medications or food

• Inactive auto-feeders, fountains, or pet doors

• Loss of airflow or humidity for exotic pets

• Inaccessible smart home monitors or alerts

Even short-term outages can create unsafe conditions, particularly in closed-off or sun-exposed areas.

How to Prepare for Summer Outages

Build a Pet Emergency Kit

Store all supplies in a waterproof, easy-to-carry container. Include:

• Bottled water (1 gallon per day per pet)

• Dry or canned food (sealed and rotated regularly)

• Manual can opener

• Backup medications (with expiration dates tracked)

• Printed veterinary and vaccination records

• Flashlights, LED lights, and batteries

• Cooling towels or battery-operated fans

• Waste bags, litter, and cleaning supplies

• First aid kit (refer to PetTech® checklist)

Keep this kit accessible and update it every season.

Maintain a Safe Home Environment

Following Fear Free® and PACCC protocols:

• Use blackout curtains to reduce indoor heat

• Close unused rooms to concentrate cool air

• Move pets to cooler, lower levels of the home

• Avoid confinement in unventilated spaces

• Place frozen water bottles near rest areas for passive cooling

Ensure pets have access to shaded areas and plenty of fresh water.

Safe Medication Handling

Many prescriptions—like insulin, eye drops, or liquid antibiotics—require refrigeration.

If power is out for over two hours:

• Store medications in a cooler with cold packs (not direct ice unless advised)

• Monitor temperature and discard compromised doses

• Ask your vet about shelf-stable alternatives or 90-day prescriptions

• Use trusted pharmacies such as Chewy or Walmart Pet Rx for extended fills

Include clear medication instructions in your emergency kit.

If You're Away During an Outage

When we are providing pet care while you're out of town, we follow protocols aligned with PSI and NAPPS standards:

• Monitor indoor temperatures and adjust visit routines

• Use available emergency supplies if needed

• Communicate updates through the Time To Pet portal

• Contact your emergency contact or veterinarian for critical issues

• Never leave pets in unsafe environments

To help us prepare:

• Provide access to cooling supplies (e.g., fans or backup water)

• Leave working keys or fobs in case of elevator disruptions

• Ensure your emergency contact is local and reachable

Special Considerations for Exotic Pets

Birds, reptiles, and other small pets may need specific environmental support.

Recommended steps:

• Prepare ventilated carriers in case relocation is needed

• Monitor for temperature or humidity changes

• Avoid opening enclosures during extreme heat

• Store heat packs or humidity boosters if appropriate

• Provide printed care instructions in the portal and emergency kit

Species-specific handling reduces stress and supports safety.

Learn Pet First Aid with PetTech®

Enroll in PetTech®’s First Aid & CPR for Pets class, offered locally by Becky’s Pet Care in Northern Virginia. This course is endorsed by PSI and includes:

• Heatstroke and emergency response

• Safe relocation and triage techniques

• Wound care and shock management

• First aid kit essentials and real-life applications

Visit PetTech.net for upcoming classes.

Trusted Resources

• AVMA – Disaster Preparedness

• VeterinaryPartner.com

• Red Cross Pet First Aid App

• Fear Free Happy Homes

• Pet Poison Helpline

Final Thoughts

Power outages may be unpredictable, but preparation isn’t. With the right supplies, information, and care plan, you can protect your pets during the hottest and most uncertain times of the year.

At PS4C, we’re committed to providing Fear Free Certified®, safety-focused care—no matter the weather.

Disclaimer:

This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s health or emergency needs. Pet Sitting 4 Comfort® (PS4C) is not responsible for outcomes based on this information without professional guidance.