Preparing you and your four legged friends for severe weather

Decatur, Ill. (WAND)-- Storms are making their way to the area, and it is normal to start to feel some anxiety as you prepare for them to roll through, but it's important that you know the essential steps to take that will keep you and your furry friends safe.

Some of the dangers we may encounter include high winds, rain, thunder, and lightning, so staying informed is one of the best tips for ensuring safety.

John Dwyer with the Champaign County Emergency Agency says, "Folks should have a way to get multiple alerts."

Staying informed about the weather is easy with online resources, television updates, and mobile apps. Storm conditions can change rapidly, so it's important to keep up with the latest information. These changing conditions can affect not only us and our property but also the behavior and well-being of our pets.

Reilee Juhl a veterinarian at Northgate Pet Clinic says, "I think a lot of the loud sounds the swaying of the trees different things that are not normal sounds they hear outside and outside of their house you know if they creak or different things. We think that is what triggers the anxiety."

There are several signs to look out for to tell that your pet may be suffering from storm anxiety.

"Pacing, whining for no apparent reason, some animals will soil themselves, hiding, they'll hide behind the toilet, or they'll hide in certain rooms, maybe they won't leave an owners bed, if they feel like that's their safe space they won't go anywhere," said Juhl.

Pets may develop a Velcro like personality and be afraid to leave their owner's side. To help ease their minds they say the best thing you can do is just let your pets know that you are there.

Juhl stated, "They want to know where their family is. Their family is the one who brings them comfort. Their family is the one who makes them feel safe."

If that doesn't seem to be easing their anxiety, a few more options are wrapping the pets in a blanket, investing in a thunder vest, or talking to your veterinarian about anxiety medications.

As conditions begin to worsen, remember to postpone any necessary travel until after the storms have passed. If a tornado warning is issued, be prepared to take shelter immediately.