ILLINOIS (WCIA) — June is Pet Preparedness Month, and officials in Illinois are encouraging residents to have a disaster preparedness plan that includes not just themselves, but their four-legged friends as well.

A survey by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals found that while 83% of pet owners live in an area impacted by disasters, less than half have a preparedness plan.

“Just like for humans, we need to be prepared for disasters on behalf of our pets,” Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) Acting Director Theodore Berger, said. “Not only do we need to think through all the items necessary to care for pets when we are at home, we need a plan in case we are not home and need arrangements for care.”

Some important tips to remember that will keep you — and your pet — safe include:

• Having a recent photo of you and your pet on hand. If you are separated from your pet, rescuers will want proof that your pet belongs to you
• Create a pet preparedness kit with medications, non-perishable food and treats, water, bowls, cat litter and pan, waste bags, blanket, bedding for pocket/exotic pets (and perhaps a heat source), toys, first aid kit, and copies of medical records
• Have up-to-date identification on your pet
• Identify a safe area of your home where all can stay together during a shelter-in-place recommendation, and keep dogs on leashes and cats in carriers
• Coordinate with a trusted friend, relative, or neighbor to take care of pets and their disaster kits if you’re not home, then meet you a specific location
• Don’t allow pets to roam loose in a damaged home or neighborhood

Many shelters or other emergency centers do not allow pets because of health and safety concerns, so it is critical that you plan ahead for your pets’ care.

The IEMA said that often times, shelters or other emergency centers do not allow pets because of health and safety concerns. Because of this, it is critical that Illinoisians plan ahead for their pets’ care. You can find more tips about how to keep your pet safe when disasters strike here.