Have emergency plan ready for family pets

Pet owners should plan how to evacuate their animals in case of a disaster, such as fire, flood, earthquake or terrorist attack. Here are some suggestions so owners can be prepared.

+Keep vehicles well maintained with never less than a half tank of gas.

+Keep a batteryoperated radio with extra batteries.

+Have a carrier with an ID tag attached for each pet and keep carriers in a convenient location.

+Have a leash and collar for each dog.

+All pet collars need securely fastened ID tags with two phone numbers, the owner's and a friend's in a different neighborhood.

+Always keep a twoweek supply of food, water, bowls and a can opener handy and ready to go.

+Prepare an evacuation kit with first aid items and current medication. Keep it organized and handy.

+For cats, keep handy a litter box, a bag of litter and a few waste-disposal items.

+Make a list of phone numbers including veterinarians, animal shelters and the local Red Cross. Keep the list in an obvious place.

+Know where to take pets. In a disaster, call 211. Develop an actual plan and find time to practice that plan.

+Arrange with a neighbor/ friend/relative to evacuate pets if the owner or family members can't get home.

+The most important thing is to have all dogs and cats microchipped and registered.

For more information, visit www.evacuatemypet.com. This site is endorsed by the American Red Cross and supported by the Humane Society.