In case of an emergency, it is a good idea to have a disaster plan for your furry (or not so furry) friend. You don't always have time to grab stuff for your pet, so it's a good idea to have a bag prepared.

If you do need to evacuate your home, keep in mind that you will not be able to take your pet with you to a Red Cross Shelter. They only allow service animals, so be aware of pet-friendly hotels and boarding places in the area or have the contact info for a friend/family member willing to take in your pet.

If you must leave your pet behind, be sure to leave them in a properly ventilated room that doesn't have windows. Have an automatic/self-feeder supplied with 3-5 days worth of food and to leave drinking water available (and leave the faucet dripping if they are in a bathroom). Leave familiar items with your pet (bed, toys, something that smells like you), and leave a note on your door with the name of your pet, type of pet, and your contact info.

It is also a good idea to know basic Pet First Aid. A Pet First Aid class is taught by a Red Cross instructor at the Animal Rescue Foundation.

Pet Disaster/evacuation Kit

• Water (of course)
• Enough food for a few days to a week
• Familiar toys or blankets
• Copies of medical/vaccination records
• Extra leash, collar, tags
• A carrier for each pet
• Pet first-aid kit