It is hard to believe that 7 years ago so many of us sat glued to the TV watching in horror the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. This week we will watch again as a storm in the gulf heads for shore. Having an emergency evacuation plan for your family is a must. One thing learned from Katrina is that plan must include your family pet. There is alot of information on Evacuation kits for your family. The Humane Society of the Unites States has put together a good guide for your pets. In your pet disaster kit, you should include:

In your pet disaster kit, you should include:

• Food and water for at least five days for each pet, bowls and a manual can opener if you are packing canned pet food.
• Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof container and a first aid kit. (It’s good to include a pet first-aid book.)
• Cat litter box, litter, garbage bags to collect all pets’ waste, and litter scoop.
• Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport pets safely and to ensure that your pets can’t escape. Carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around and lie down. (Your pet may have to stay in the carrier for hours at a time while you are away from home.) Be sure to have a secure cage with no loose objects inside it to accommodate smaller pets. These may require blankets or towels for bedding and warmth as well as other special items.
• Current photos and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them (and to prove that they are yours) in case you and your pets become separated .
• Pet beds and toys, if you can easily take them, to reduce stress.
• Information about your pets’ feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets or place them in foster care.
• Other useful items include newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, grooming items, and household bleach.
• Because evacuation shelters generally don’t accept pets (except for service animals), you must plan ahead to make certain your family and pets will have a safe place to stay. Don’t wait until disaster strikes to do your research.
• Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size, and species. Inquire if the “no pet” policies would be waived in an emergency. Make a list of animal-friendly places and keep it handy. Call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home.

To read the entire article and see other great tips click on HSUS