Pet owners should prepare today and help reduce the amount of stress you and your companion animal will go through when disaster strikes. Human shelters (i.e. those set up by the Red Cross) can not house pets. The following actions will help pet owners deal with disaster:

• Keep ID current. Pets with outdated tags, or no tags cannot be reunited with owners. Personalized tags are available at most pet supply stores.
• Double up on ID: In addition to wearing an ID tag, your pet should be microchipped. This form of ID cannot fall off. You can chip you pet at the Peninsula Human Society and SPCA (650-340-7022), no appointment necessary, for $30.
• Have two current photos of your pet, in case you need to post “lost pet” flyers.
• Familiarize your pet with a carrier or crate, as you may need to use one to transport your pet during an emergency. If you associate the carrier or crate with something positive (i.e. trips to the dog park) your pet will be more comfortable when you need to use it.
• Keep a short list of pet- friendly hotels where you live or where you plan to travel after a disaster. Some chains, including Motel 6 are “pet friendly”
• Have at least the following items stored in a pet “go bag”:
  • Pet carrier/crate
  • One week supply pet food
  • Bowls for food and water
  • Leash
  • Blankets/bedding and towel
  • Litter (for cats)