Advanced planning is essential in the event of a disaster - for you as well as your pet. Disasters such as floods, hurricanes and blizzards may not catch you by surprise, but other disasters may arrive without notice, such as forest fires, gas explosions and leaking hazardous materials. By developing a disaster action plan, you can increase the chances that both you and your pet will survive safely.

It is important to know your options before disaster strikes. Emergency public shelters are not permitted to accept pets due to health and safety concerns. Your local veterinarian and the Atlantic County Office of Emergency Preparedness may help you find other options for your pet.

The Atlantic County Animal Shelter recommends the following:

• Ask dependable friends or relatives if you and your pet(s) can stay with them in the event of an emergency.
• Find motels outside your immediate area that may be available in the event of an evacuation. Some establishments may charge additional fees to accommodate pets.
• Familiarize yourself with boarding kennels in your area. Know where they are located, who remains on the premises in the event of a disaster, and what provisions have been made should the kennel need to be evacuated.
• Be sure your pet always wears a properly fitted collar with its current license and rabies tags. Be sure the pet's vaccinations are up to date and all documentation is contained in a clearly marked package. Have your pet micro chipped and keep registration information up to date.
• For evacuation information on horses and livestock, call HSUS at (202) 452-1100 or visit www.HSUS.org .

For more information about helping your pet survive a disaster, please contact the Atlantic County Animal Shelter at (609) 485-2345.