June is Pet Preparedness Month. Your pets are an essential part of your family, and they rely on you to keep them safe. FEMA suggests by making a plan to prepare your pets for disasters, you can give them their best chance of staying safe.

Things to consider when you are making your pets’ emergency preparedness plan:

• Know where you’ll go. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen.
• Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you cannot.
• Have your pet microchipped. Keep your address, and phone number updated, and include emergency contact information for a friend or relative outside your immediate area.
• Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter, or animal control office to get additional advice and information if you're unsure how to care for your pet in an emergency.
• Keep that plan and what you need for your pet's care in an emergency kit explicitly tailored to their needs. Here are the top 10 items recommended for your pet's emergency kit:
• Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
• Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
• Medicine. Keep an extra supply of your pet's medication in a waterproof container.
• First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
• Collar with ID tag, a harness or leash and vaccination information. Include a backup leash, collar, and ID tag. Have copies of your pet's registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
• Bring a traveling bag, crate, or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet.
• Grooming items. Pet shampoo, wipes formulated for your specific pet's needs, and other items in case they need some cleaning up.
• Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet's sanitation needs.
• A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a photo will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet.
• Everyday items. Put favorite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit to help reduce stress for your pet.

For more information, visit the Ready.gov Pets and Animals Preparedness page.