For those of you who are in our Florida areas, we would like to encourage you, as you prepare for the 2011 hurricane season, to make sure to prepare for your pets, as well.

Here are a few things to remember, taken from the National Hurricane Center Hurricane Preparedness website -

• Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations.  Pet shelters may 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!  

A good way to prepare is to put together a pet disaster supply kit so that you are ready should you have to evacuate.  Be sure to have it in a waterproof container with the rest of your hurricane disaster supplies.  In your pet disaster supply kit should be -

• Proper identification including immunization records and current photographs    
• Ample supply of food and water   
• A carrier or cage   
• Medications   
• Muzzle, collar and leash

Lastly, make sure that your evacuation destination is pet-friendly.  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.   Or, if a hotel/motel is to be your destination, make sure your pets will be welcome.  Petswelcome.com and Pet-Friendly-Hotels.net are great resources to help you make your evacuation destination plans without having to leave your pets behind.