Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters usually 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 – carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.

Plan your evacuation strategy and don’t forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics, and 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.

Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have: Proper identification collar and vaccines tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, 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.

Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm – reassure them and remain calm.

Pet shelters will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.

Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home – often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and 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 to 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.