Preparing for a hurricane requires knowing how to keep everyone in your home safe--including your pets. Having an emergency plan for your pets as well as the people in your household will help you stay calm and safe if a hurricane happens in your area. Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe during a hurricane:

Set Up an Emergency Kit

Pets have their own important needs in a disaster, just like humans do. Create an emergency kit specifically for your pets in case of an emergency so it's ready to go at a moment's notice. Include food and water for a minimum of three days, any medications and waste-removal supplies. It's also a good idea to keep an extra leash or harness as well as comfort items like a blanket or favorite toy to keep your animals calm.

Use a Pet Rescue Alert Sticker

Rescue alert stickers are crucial if you need to evacuate your home. They're a simple and inexpensive way to tell rescue workers and emergency services how many and what kinds of pets you have in your home so that nobody gets left behind. Mark the number and types of pets you have in your home and update as needed. Place the sticker somewhere near your front door or somewhere else that's easily viewable to first responders or other emergency workers.

Know Where to Shelter

Emergency shelters do not always allow you to bring pets, so it's important to know where you can bring them if you're forced to evacuate. Plan for where to take your pets and keep a quick reference of relevant contact information. Try asking your vet if they have any suggestions for shelters or kennels. You can also search for hotels and motels that allow pets, and inquire at your local animal shelter about emergency lodging.

Your pets are part of your family, and as such they need just as much help staying safe during a hurricane as you and your fellow humans. Keep these three things in mind when determining how to prepare for the possibility of a hurricane.

Tag: Pet Safety