As the earthquake and tsunami in Japan and the tornado in Joplin MO sadly showed, it’s not difficult to become separated from your pets when a natural disaster hits. Hurricane Irene — a Category 3 storm — is hurtling towards the Eastern coast of the United States, which means that some areas are already under evacuation orders and others have been warned that those instructions could be coming. There’s also risk of flooding, and transportation around and between towns and cities will be compromised. If you have pets, what can you do to keep them safe when the storm hits?

Some of the first steps will be for both your safety and that of your pets: know where you’re supposed to go in the event of an evacuation, stock up on food and water, and make sure your important documents and medications are easy to access. Pay attention to your local news and government sources for up-to-date information. Keep your cell phone charged, have cash on hand in case you can’t get to an ATM, and consider having a battery-powered radio available in case the power goes out.

Because many shelters don’t take pets, you should check in advance to find out where you’ll be able to go with your furry or feathered friends in the case of an evacuation. Some hotels and motels will list restrictions on pets during emergency situations — call and ask.

The Humane Society of the United States recommends preparing an emergency kit with your pets in mind. Here’s what to include:

• Minimum three days’ worth of pet food and water in an airtight and waterproof container
• Bowls for food and water
• Current photos of your pets with descriptions, in case they become lost (and put a collar with a tag on your cats and dogs!)
• Medications, vaccine reports, first-aid supplies
• Items that will comfort your pet, like a favourite toy or blanket
• Small garbage bags to collect animal waste
• A leash, harness and sturdy carrier that’s large enough that your animal can sleep in it, for dogs
• A litter box, litter and a sturdy carrier of comfortable size, for cats

Check out this Pawesome post for info on what to do if your pet does go missing. And for more detailed information on emergency prep, check out the Humane Society’s website. Stay safe, guys.

Photo by Lost and Found Tornado Pets 2011