Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.

Before the disaster

• Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters might require proof of vaccines.
• Have a current photograph.
• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal, clearly labeled with your contact information. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around. Attach a copy of your pet's records such as rabies certificate, county registration, special needs instructions.
• Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics, friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

If you plan to shelter your pet, work it into your evacuation route planning.

During the disaster

• If sheltering a pet, call ahead first and determine availability. Bring the pet in a cage or carrier; have collar and rabies tag, proper identification, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions, and newspapers or trash bags for clean-up.
• If sheltering at home, bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

After the disaster

• Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks have been altered. Pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.
• If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet, if possible.
• After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.

Pet disaster supply kit

• A carrier or cage labeled with your emergency contact information
• Proper identification including immunization records and county registration proof (if applicable)
• Ample supply of food and water
• Medications and special care instructions
• Muzzle, collar and leash

Check hurricane protection tips