As we all know, natural disasters are not predictable. They come in many forms, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and wild fires just to name a few. Disasters can happen at any time, anywhere with virtually no warning, and could require anything from a brief absence to a long term or permanent evacuation from your home. Most of us have a disaster preparedness kit handy or at least have knowledge of supplies we should have and what we should do in the event of such disasters, but what about our pets? Have necessary precautions been taken to ensure the safety of our furry friends?

One very important thing that every household with pets should have is a window sticker with what types and how many pets are in the household, this sticker should also include the name and phone number of your veterinarian. Make sure the sticker is visible for any type of rescue worker. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if there is enough time write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.

Make sure you have a pre-determined safe place to take your pets in the event of an evacuation. Remember that if it is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pets either. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. They are at risk of the same things we are such as being trapped, or being exposed to many life threatening hazards should they escape. NOTE: Not all Red Cross disaster shelters accept pets.

Below are a few tips in assisting you in arranging a safe place for your pets.

1) Check with friends and family members outside your immediate area to see if they would be willing to take your pets in case of evacuation.

2) Do some research and find hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.

3) Check with local animal shelters and your veterinarian to see if they provide emergency shelter and/or foster care for pets, or if they could provide you with a list of boarding kennels that do.

Having an evacuation pack handy and in an easy to get to place is a must, and it is important that everyone in the family knows where it is. Your evacuation kit should be easy to carry and clearly labeled. Here is a list of items that should be included in your evacuation kit:

Pet first-aid kit with guide book.

At least 1 weeks worth of canned or dry food (include can opener if necessary)

Pet food and water dishes.

Disposable litter trays

Paper towels.

Liquid dish soap.

Plastic bags for pet clean up

Extra harness/collar and leash.

At least 1 weeks worth of bottled water for each person and pet.(Important; Rotate food and water out of kit every 2 months and replace with a fresh supply)

Copies of medical records in a waterproof container with at least a 2 week supply of any required medications.

(Medications also need to be rotated out of kit and replaced with new to keep them from going bad or becoming useless)

A sturdy carrier and/or crate. (1 per pet if possible)

At least 1 flashlight (with extra batteries) and at least 1 blanket.

Recent photos of pets in case of separation and you find the need to make "Lost Pet" posters.

A long leash, toys (both regular and chew), and at least 1 weeks worth of crate liners. ( For Dogs)

Pillow case, toys and at least 1 weeks worth of scoopable litter. (For Cats)

The human members of the family should also have an evacuation or emergency kit handy, which should include:

First-aid kit, flashlight, radio, and extra batteries.

Multi purpose tool, duct tape, rope, and plastic tarp.

Spray paint, and magic marker.

Protective and/or extra clothing, shoes and/or boots, and pre-moistened handy wipes.

Rescue whistle, extra cash, extra medication (2 week supply), important phone numbers, and copies of medical and insurance information.

In the event that for some reason you are unable to care for your pets, you should have a "Pre designated caregiver". This should be someone who you trust, lives close to you, and has easy access to your home. This should also be someone who has met your pets and has successfully cared for pets in the past. It is important to discuss what your pets requirements are at length with them so they fully understand the responsibility of caring for your pets. If trusted, this individual should be given a set of keys to your home.(Swapping responsibilities with a neighbor who also has pets may work out very well.)

Always plan for the worst-case scenario. If you think you may only be evacuated for a day, just assume that you may not be able to return for a couple of weeks. If evacuation has been recommended or required always follow the instructions given by state and local officials. Here are a few simple tips to minimize evacuation time:

Store evacuation, emergency kits, and leashes as close to an exit as possible.

Ensure all pets wear collars with tags that include both their name and yours with your phone number, and any urgent medical needs. Microchipping your pets is also a good idea. (Contact your veterinarian for more information about microchipping). Also write both the pets name and yours with any contact information on all pet carriers.

At the first signs or warnings of a storm or disaster bring pets indoors to prevent them from becoming disoriented and wandering off.

If necessary call ahead to the pre-determined safe place you chose for your pets to make arrangements for boarding at the first signs or warnings of disaster.

Where you live and what natural disasters your area is prone to will make a difference in regards to which rooms of your home are the safest for you and your pets, for example if your area is prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or floods, you might take the following into consideration:

Rooms to be used as a safe haven should be free of windows, glass doors or anything that could cause flying debris. Laundry rooms, bathrooms and basements are easy to clean, and generally make good safe zones.

Having access to fresh water is very important, if at all possible fill bathtubs and sinks in advance to make sure you have access to fresh water just in case of any additional crisis.

If your area is prone flooding or if flooding is likely, try to get to the highest point in your home, preferably to a room with counters, and/or high shelves so that your pets have a place to take shelter above the flood waters.

If it has been recommended that you stay inside your home, it is imperative that you keep your pets with you at all times. Make sure that your evacuation kit and supplies are close by and within easy reach. If stress seems to be getting the best of your pet you may want to consider keeping them in their carrier or crate for security, safety, and comfort.

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