Flooding in Dog Mom Life: How to Stay Safe When Water Rises

If you live in the Midwest (hello, Wisconsin friends), you’ve likely seen the effects of recent flooding. Streets underwater, homes evacuated, and chaos for pets who don’t understand what’s going on. As dog moms, our job is to be the calm in the storm—and that means having a plan before the water hits the back door.

Here’s how to prepare, protect, and act quickly in a flood situation with your dog.

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🧳 1. Pack a Go-Bag for You and Your Dog

Floods, fires, earthquakes, and everything in between can come fast, and you may only have minutes to leave. Keep an emergency go-bag packed and hanging by the door or in your car.

Your dog's emergency kit should include:

• Leash, collar, and escape-proof harness
• ID tags and microchip number (write it down!)
• Copy of vet records + vaccination info
• At least 3 days’ worth of food (in sealed baggies)
• Collapsible water bowl + bottled water
• Dog medications
• Toy or blanket
• Poop bags and pee pads
• A recent photo of you with your dog (in case you're separated)

Luwello tip: Store everything in a waterproof dry bag or plastic bin on an easy to get to shelf. Bonus points if it’s color-coded just for your pup.

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🏠 2. Know Where to Go if You’re Evacuated

Not all emergency shelters accept pets. Have a few dog-friendly options lined up.

Check ahead for:

• Local pet-friendly hotels or motels, keep a list in your to go bag/bin
• Friends or family outside the flood zone
• Boarding facilities with emergency protocols
• County animal services that can temporarily house pets

Don’t assume your dog can come everywhere you do. Make calls before you need to leave.

📍 3. If You’re Separated from Your Dog

It’s heartbreaking—but it happens. Your dog may bolt in fear, or you may be forced to evacuate before finding them. Here’s what to do:

• Immediately notify local animal control and shelters
• Post in local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and Petco Love Lost
• Use your most recent photo of your dog (ideally with you in it)
• Include your phone number and mention if your dog is wearing a harness or tag
• Don’t give up. Dogs are often found days—even weeks—later.

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📦 4. Keep Your Dog Safe During the Flood

• Don’t let them walk through floodwaters. There can be sharp debris, sewage, or dangerous chemicals.
• Avoid off-leash time entirely. Even well-trained dogs can panic.
• Use a harness and keep your dog on a short leash—no flexi leashes.
• If you must leave them home for any reason (last resort) in a flood, leave them in the highest possible safe room with food and water.

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📅 5. Make a Plan Now—Not When the Sirens Start

We always say “next time I’ll be more prepared.” Let this be the time you actually are.

Make a checklist. Pack your go-bag. Update your microchip info. You’ll never regret being ready.

And most importantly: your dog takes their cues from you. If you stay calm and lead confidently, they’ll follow. Even when the world is a little underwater.

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You’ve got this, dog mom. And if you need help—we’re here.

💛 Team Luwello