Pet safety during hurricanes

Don't forget those loyal family members — your pets. They need preparation just as humans do.

Find shelter for your pets

Unless you rely on the assistance of a guide or leader dog, Red Cross and other public shelters cannot accept pets. It's up to you to make other arrangements for your pet. Contact your veterinarian, Humane Society or Animal Control office for more information. There may be space available at 'pet shelters' on high ground in your community. Make sure your pets have up-to-date shots. Pet shelters require proof of vaccinations.

Your pet survival kit

Before a hurricane strikes, be sure to put together a Pet Survival Kit:

• Proper ID collar and rabies tag
• Carrier or cage
• Leash
• At least a two-week food supply
• Water and food bowls
• Any necessary medications
• Specific care instructions
• Newspapers and plastic trash bags for handling waste

Keep an eye on your pet after a hurricane

After the danger has passed, be careful in allowing your pet outdoors. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered, and that could be confusing to your pet. Be careful that your pet doesn't become lost. Downed power lines present real danger to your pet, as do snakes, insects or animals driven to higher ground by floods.