Now that hurricane season is in full effect, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is recommending for pet parents to develop an emergency evacuation plan to help keep their families and pets safe in case of an emergency. 

Don’t wait until the last minute to see if a hurricane will affect your community; stay prepared with a plan in place so that you can evacuate safely with your pets if you need to. 

Here are some critical tips to help you prepare for natural disasters:

• Obtain a rescue alert sticker, which will let rescuers know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible and includes the types and number of pets in your household as well as the name and phone number of your veterinarian.
• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
• Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. The ASPCA recommends micro-chipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. 
• Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. Do not leave your pets behind.
• Keep a pet emergency kit and supplies handy with items such as medical records, water, pet food and medications and pet first aid supplies.

For more information, safety tips and a disaster prep checklist from the ASPCA, check out our Disaster Preparedness page.