June is National Pet Preparedness Month; it’s also the official start of hurricane season! As scary as hurricane season can be, it’s important to have a clear safety plan in place for yourself and your pets in the event of a storm or other natural disaster.

We’ve put together some of our go-to tips for hurricane preparedness to help you and your pet stay safe together.

1. Build a pet emergency kit.

The Humane Society recommends packing non-perishable food (don’t forget the can opener), a carrier, litter and a litter box, puppy pads, medicine, an extra leash, medical records stored in a waterproof bag or container, a first aid kit, a recent picture of your pet (printed), extra bowls, and, of course, make sure your dog or cat is wearing tags and/or microchipped. Don’t forget to include them in your water count and pack enough water for at least 5 days.

Pack the above in a backpack or duffel bag that you can quickly find and easily carry with you.

2. Find your nearest pet-friendly shelter.

In the event an evacuation is needed, know where to go and take them with you! Pet-friendly shelters are limited and many require advanced registration. Call your local humane society and secure a safe spot for your pet before an emergency strikes.

If you need to evacuate and shelters are full, some hotels may open their pet policies to accept your furry friends. Do your research ahead of time and book early! Never leave your pet behind during a hurricane or other natural disaster.

3. Bring your pet inside early.

Planning on riding out the hurricane at home? Bring your pets indoors early to ride out the storm safely. Keep your pet in a crate or carrier with you when the storm hits so you know where they are in the event of an emergency evacuation or damage to your home. Do NOT leave them outside under any circumstances!

Stay tuned to your news stations to determine when it is safe to go outside and keep them leashed when you do. All of their familiar smells will have washed away, and your pet can easily become confused and lost. Remember, in the days and weeks following a hurricane, watch for debris, downed power lines, and other dangers to you and your pets.

4. Provide comfort items.

Natural disasters are scary for humans; imagine how scared your pets will be! They can both sense your anxiety and the impending storm, so include some comfort items in their crate or carrier. This can be a t-shirt you recently wore, a favorite toy, a blanket, or pet calming spray.

The anxiety in the air may change your pet’s behavior and cause them to behave irrationally. FEMA recommends separating dogs and cats, even if they’re normally friendly towards each other.

5. Make sure your pet is Up to date on vaccinations.

Include proof of vaccinations in your pet’s hurricane preparedness kit. You’ll need this in the event of an evacuation!

Please stay safe this hurricane season!