We learn from a young age that we should have an emergency plan in action for our family, but how many of us have thought to include our pets in this plan? Sure, maybe you have thought of grabbing the family dog on your way out, should a disaster strike. However, your plan needs to be much more thought out to ensure your pet's safety.

The first thing you want to do is include supplies for your pet in your emergency kit, or assemble a separate emergency kit just for your pet.

Your kit should include:

• Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that they can’t escape.

• Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter.

• Medications and copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container.

• A pet first aid kit.

• Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost.

• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.

• Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable.

If you have to evacuate your home during a disaster, the best way to protect your pets is to evacuate them too. If it's not safe for you to stay behind then it's not safe to leave pets behind either.

• Know which hotels and motels along your evacuation route will accept pets in an emergency. Call ahead for reservations if you know you may need to evacuate. Ask if no pet policies could be waived in an emergency.

• Know which friends, relatives, boarding facilities, animal shelters or veterinarians can care for your animals in an emergency. Prepare a list with phone numbers.

• Although your animals may be more comfortable together, be prepared to house them separately.

• Include your pets in evacuation drills so that they become used to entering and traveling in their carriers calmly.

• Make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are current and that all dogs and cats are wearing collars with securely fastened identification

• Many pet shelters require proof of current vaccinations to reduce the spread of disease.

• Consider having your pet “microchipped” by your veterinarian.

• Read more about our safety tips for traveling with your pet.

Most importantly, always remember: if it’s not safe for you to stay in your home during an emergency, it’s not safe for them either!