Check with your local animal services, disaster preparedness office, humane society, or vet to find out what the situation is in your area.
If you plan to stay at a motel, check in advance to find several that will accept pets. (Collier County Emergency Management's list of pet-friendly hotels in Florida)
Ask about any limitations on the number, size, and type of pet.
Another option is to board pets at a kennel, vet's office, or with friends or relatives. Verify in advance that they are not in an evacuation area and that they can safely house your animals.
What to have on hand:
Make two waterproof "info baggies", one to keep with you and one to tape securely to your pet's carrier. Include:
copies of your animals' license and vaccination records
a recent photo of your pets, preferably with you in the picture
a two week supply of any medications
a two week supply of your pets' food
a two week supply of drinking water for your pets
unbreakable food and water dishes
pet carriers (familiarize the animals with them far in advance) and a cover for each
for dogs, extra leashes and leads, newspaper and baggies
for cats, kitty litter & box, scoop
Collars and ID:
Make sure dogs and cats are wearing identification tags that list your phone number and perhaps that of a friend.
Never leave a choke collar on a dog. They're for training only and pose a serious strangulation risk otherwise.
Take at least one extra collar for each pet.
Fluorescent tape on collars will make the pets easier to spot with a flashlight in the dark.
If you'll be staying home, plan where to keep each pet.
Move cages away from windows and objects that could fall on them.
If pets must be confined, make sure the room is pet-proofed so they don't harm themselves.
If flooding is a possibility, place caged pets on counters and make sure others will be able to get to areas above the water level.
Make several copies of your disaster plan(s) so you don't forget anything when the time comes.
During
Keep all pets indoors.
You can't control nature.
Your pet may act unpredictably.
Pets may become frightened.
They may attempt to hide or flee. Be especially careful when opening windows or doors.
Pets that appear calm may startle easily, or simply be very calm.
Approach pets cautiously, especially if they are nervous or panicking.
After
Before allowing pets outdoors
Thoroughly check the area to determine that it is safe.
Make sure enclosures are sound.
Keep pets leashed and make certain they're wearing id tags for several days when outdoors.
Damage in the area may confuse your pet.
Watch for displaced wildlife and strays.
Normally safe waterways may be contaminated as may standing water.
