SPANISH FORT, Ala. — The Atlantic hurricane season began June 1 and now is the time to prepare the family pet for what may come.

Everyone should know by now to gather essential items such as water, batteries and flashlights. But how does one get their pets ready for a hurricane or evacuation?

PetSmart at the Eastern Shore Centre has information to successfully get a pet off on the right paw this hurricane season.

According to Pet Care Manager Tony Eilers, one step is to prepare a list of pet-friendly lodging options ahead of time. Some hotels will allow pets, one just has to ask.

However, most American Red Cross shelters do not allow pets unless they are service animals.

Preparing the pet’s evacuation kit is also an essential step.

“The main thing is food and water,” Eilers said.

He suggests the pet should have at least one weeks supply of food and water.

The best idea is to buy a few gallon jugs of water for the pet, just as one would for the family to ensure the water is not contaminated.

Make sure to also pack the pet’s water and food bowls along with a manual can opener, if using canned food.

Eilers also mentioned making sure the pet has a sufficient supply of medication. Make sure all medical records for the pet are up to date, including vaccination records.

Buy extra doses of the needed essentials for the pet such as heartworm medication and flea preventative in case stores are closed for an extended period of time.

At Banfield Pet Hospital, located inside PetSmart, pet owners are given a prescription card allowing the prescription to be filled at any Banfield in the country.

Eilers also recommends purchasing a pet carrier for traveling and housing the pet during the storm while travelling.

Carriers are available in all sizes and start at around $20 and go up in price depending on the size.

If it is known that traveling will be involved and the pet cannot go, call local veterinarian offices and groomers to see if they have boarding available. Also, try to plan to leave the pet with a family or friend who may have a more secure situation for the pet to stay and ride out the storm.

Collars, leashes and ID tags are also essentials to have while traveling with a pet during an evacuation, according to the American Red Cross. However, for residents staying at home during a hurricane, make sure all pets are brought inside because pets left outside may run away or get lost due.

Wanda Peterson, a PetSmart shopper from Foley, suggested buying the pet a life jacket when asked what item she should would purchase for her pet during a hurricane.

“You never know what can happen,” she said.

These are just a few ways to keep pets safe during the event of a hurricane or need for evacuation. Only the pet owner can know exactly how to prepare their pet for a situation. Hurricanes are unpredictable, so plan early. It’s never too soon to gather the essentials the family’s furry friend will need in the event of a hurricane.