Protecting Your Pet: Protecting Your Pets During Hurricanes

(WSVN) -- When it comes to preparing for a hurricane ... Sometimes the smallest members of our family get lost in the shuffle.

Animal Cruelty Officer Sharron Carmichael: "Hey sweetie how are ya?"

But just like you prepare a hurricane supply kit for your family...You need to prepare one for your pet.

Sharron Carmichael: "They should be considered just like part of your family. You're packing supplies for them, packing supplies for the kids to make everybody comfortable. That's what you do."

The number one thing you can do for your animal is make sure it has a collar and identification.

Sharron Carmichael: "It says I'm lost, please call and it has my home phone number and my owners love me very

much. "

When it comes to supplies, you need to make sure your pet has enough food and medicine to last two weeks. An air tight container can be handy plus bowls and water.

Sharron Carmichael: "Plenty of water, and that will depend on each animal. You should know pretty much by now how much your animal will drink."

You also need to make sure you have a pet carrier big enough for fido and fluffy to stand in. You may even want to keep your pet in the crate during the entire storm.

Sharron Carmichael: "Because if the roof blows off or the windows blow out, they're gone. At least if they're in that carrier you've got a better chance of hanging on to them."

Keep in mind, just like the sounds of the high winds and rain can frighten you...It can scare your pet as well.

Sharron Carmichael: "Once the power goes out and the winds blowing, it frightens everybody and they sense it more than anybody."

That's why it's a good idea to have plenty of toys and comfort items.

Sharron Carmichael: "You put cookies in here, dog cookies or peanut butter. It's a way to keep the dog occupied and maybe bring down the stress level a little bit."

If you have to evacuate, you need to make plans for your pet.

A lot of hotels and motels will waive pet policies during a storm, but you should call ahead.

Don't plan on taking your pet to an emergency shelter .. animals are not allowed.

One option is to board your pet with a veternary clinic or boarding facility. But keep in mind they can fill up quickly, and there are some basic rules you have to follow.

Sharron Carmichael: "Flea and tick free, there are many boarding facilities that will not accept your animal if it has ticks."

And there are many facilities that require proof that you're pet has all of it's shots.

Then once the storm has passed through...Keep your furry friend on a leash. Remember the surrounding area can be hazardous so it's best to make sure the area is safe before you let them go out.