Pets and evacuations

What can you do with your pets if you must evacuate amid the threat of a hurricane?

Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson is reminding Floridians to create an emergency response plan for your pets during hurricane season.

Leaving pets behind during an evacuation is not recommended because the animals can easily be injured, lost or killed. Owners should find out now if any local boarding facilities or veterinary offices can shelter their animals in an emergency.

Pet owners should also contact hotels outside their immediate area to determine which allow pets and whether there are any size restrictions.

Here are some more tips for pet owners:

• Keep your pet's ID tags and vaccinations up to date.

• Prepare a pet evacuation kit, including food and water for one week, a manual can opener, medications, medical/vaccination records, a pet carrier and bedding.

• When traveling, properly secure pets in the vehicle.