Hurricane season is underway. As Hurricane Matthew makes its way toward the southeast coast, here are some tips to keep your pets safe.
Prepare ahead for safety and comfort of your pet
Do not leave pets at home, especially if you live in an evacuation area. Even if they survive the storm, they might flee a damaged home and be lost in the chaos.
Where to take your pet
It might be difficult, if not impossible, to find shelter for your animals in the midst of a disaster, so plan ahead. Here are some options:
Related: Hurricane Matthew: Live updates as storm approaches the East Coast
Hotels: Contact hotels and motels outside your area in advance to check policies on accepting pets and restrictions on number, size and species. Ask whether "no pet" policies could be waived. Keep a list of "pet-friendly" places, including phone numbers, with other disaster information. For an impending storm, call ahead for reservations. The Humane Society of the United States recommends the following websites to find pet-friendly lodgings.
Friends and relatives: Ask friends, relatives or others outside the area if they can shelter your animals. Make arrangements with neighbors to help evacuate pets in the event you can't get home.
Pet-friendly shelters: Find out if pets will be permitted at an evacuation shelter.
Related: Photos: 14 essential tips to keep your pets safe during hurricane season
Other tips
Vaccinate your pet
If you haven't already done so, get those shots now. Infectious diseases can become a big threat after a disaster.
Get your pet an ID tag
If a pet becomes lost or escapes during the confusion of an evacuation, proper identification will increase the chances of a safe return home. Tag should include your cell number and, if space allows, the number of an out-of-town contact. Consider having your pet tattooed or 'microchipped.'
Get a pet carrier
You will need a pet carrier or cage for each dog, cat, bird or small animal. Make sure it is large enough for each pet to stand up and turn around comfortably.
Have photos of your pet
Take clear, color photos (frontal, left and right sides) of you with your pet, and store these with your pet's license, medical records and ownership papers in a waterproof carrier to take with you. Include pictures of the pet with you to help with any challenge to your ownership. Take photos with your cellphone so they're stored there as well.
Set up a pet disaster kit
Put together a pet disaster kit with medications and medical records in a waterproof container, a leash and collar or harness for each pet, non-spill food and water dishes, a 14-day supply of food, water in non-breakable containers, a manual can opener, grooming supplies, your pet’s blanket and a favorite toy, cleanser and disinfectant to handle waste, newspapers or litter, paper towels and plastic bags.
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