8 Pet Safety Tips for Hurricane Sandy

Pets need protection from Hurricane Sandy just as we do: follow these pet safety tips.We can't stress the advice from the ASPCA more: "If you are not safe, neither is your pet."

While those of us on the East Coast are preparing for a monster of a storm with the arrival of Hurricane Sandy, we must remember that our pets need to be included in our safety and evacuation plans.

Here are 8 must-read tips:

1.) Bring your pets in and keep them inside
While there is no reason that a pet should live outside, at the first sign of an imminent storm, pets need to be secured inside the house ASAP. A doghouse will NOT provide any protection. If you can't be outside neither can your pet!

2.) Do NOT leave your pets behind...ever
If the situation calls for you to evacuate your home, your pet is not safe there either. Do not rely on thinking animal instinct will protect them.

Related: 7 inspiring stories of dogs that have saved their owners

3.) Call ahead to shelters
If you must escape and go to a shelter, remember that not every Red Cross shelter accepts animals. The time to search for shelters that accept pets is now - before you must leave. Local vets and shelters might know about nearby shelters that accept pets. You can also call nearby hotels and motels who may allowed pets. Please note that if you live in NYC, pets are welcome at all NYC Hurricane Sandy evacuation centers. Please do NOT leave your pets behind! Looking to see if the shelters in your area accept pets? Here's a full list.

4.) Lean on friends and family
Friends and relatives who are outside your immediate area might be willing to take in your pet(s). Ask early on when first making your emergency plans.

5.) Create an emergency supply and travel kit
As you pack your own "Go Bag," make one for your pet with all the necessary items he might need over a period of days. Click here to see exactly what items should be in it.

Related: 10 tips to keep your dog calm during a thunderstorm

6.) Select a designated temporary caregiver
No one wants to think about this, but there is always a chance that you might not be able to go back to your home for a while. By predetermining a person who will take your pet in for a lengthy period of time, it not only provides protection for your beloved pet, but also gives you peace of mind that you pet will be taken care of properly.

7.) Secure proper identification for your pet
The ASPCA specifically advises the following: "Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet's name, your name and contact information on your pet's carrier."

8.) Visually sum up your house and predetermine the safest points in your home
Locate the rooms that are highest if flooding is an issue. Make sure the room is window free to be safe from possible flying debris. Your best bet is to choose "easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, and basements as safe zones."

- By Danielle Sullivan
Follow Danielle on Babble

For 2 more pet safety tips for Hurricane Sandy, visit Babble!

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