TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - With Hurricane Michael fast approaching the Panhandle, people are preparing for the potential impact.
But what about our pets?
They can't fend for themselves during severe weather and are counting on us to keep them safe.
Lisa Glunt from the Leon County Humane Society has some tips to protect your pets during a hurricane. She says the first line of defense is to be pro-active.
Make sure you have a crate for your dog or cat, or what ever other animals you are transporting, before the storm hits. Animals get scared in severe weather situations and can easily run if not crated.
And don't forget to have a plan in place for you and your four-legged friend if you do have to evacuate.
"Before you even think of evacuating, just go online. You'll be able to look up pet friendly resources for hurricane and storm preparations," said Glunt. "Look and find the hotels and shelters that are pet friendly. Also find out what their maximum occupancy is, because if you get there and it's full you really want to have a backup plan."
She says identification is key.
Make sure your animal has a collar or harness on with a rabies and I-D tag on it. If they are microchipped, make sure the microchip information is up to date. And if you do have to leave your animals at home, label the house by sticking a visible, legible note on the windows identifying that there are animals inside to alert rescuers.
Some Tallahassee residents say they're staying because of their pets.
"Because I have cats and a dog and a lot of the shelters don't take when you have multiples, and my mom wouldn't want to leave anyway, so I'll stay with my mom and we'll be safe," said Katy Caster. "I'm sure it'll be alright. But it's scary."
If you are choosing to stay, make sure you and your pets are safe.
