Coastal residents in the east and southeastern states live with an awareness of hurricane and high water dangers. Before the next hurricane season begins, make sure you've made arrangements for your furry friend to also weather the storm.

As with all natural disasters, advance planning is the key to successfully managing the event. With the increase of hurricane activity in the last few years, some shelters are reconsidering their policies on accepting family pets or not. Your veternarian's office should have the most up to date info for you, or be able to provide contact information.

Should a shelter accept pets, they will most certainly insist on up to date vaccination and health records. Prepare an information packet well in advance. The packet should contain your pet's photo and name, your contact information, your veterinarian's contact information, the medical records for your pet, and alternative emergency contact in case you are separated from your pet, such as a relative or friend in another location.

A sturdy carrier or crate with solid sides will help keep your pet calm. Pets can be quite upset by the high excitement an emergency causes. Not only will you be helping your pet stay calm, you 'll be preventing him from running away and becoming lost. If you do go to a shelter, having your animal crated will be safer for him and you will have one less thing to worry about. Include a favorite toy or blanket in the crate. Dogs and cats are comforted by having something familiar smelling nearby.