June 1 marks the beginning of hurricane season, and this year is predicted to be possibly one of the worst ones yet. As we discussed last year, being forewarned and prepared is the first order of business.

Although since Hurricane Katrina there has been discussion of allowing pets in some shelters, no Palm Beach County shelter allows pets at this time. So your disaster preparation must start with securing a safe place for your pet to ride out the storm.

The safest place for your pet is with you in your own shuttered home. You need to have a two-week supply of food and water for yourself and your pet. Make sure food is in sealed containers and water is in plastic, not glass, for safety.

Stock up on cat litter as well. You should also have a crate or cage to confine your pet safely. Make sure you have leashes for walking your dog, because lots of fenced yards will no longer be fenced after high winds. A collar with identification helps if he becomes separated from you, but a collar can also be lost or destroyed. The best identification is a tattoo or microchip.

All shelters and most veterinarians have a scanner to read these chips so your pet can be safely returned to you. Microchips are inserted under the skin between the shoulders with minimal discomfort. Call your veterinarian for an appointment.

If you must evacuate your home to a shelter, you should have your pet on a reserved hurricane list at a safe boarding facility. Most will only take pets if you are in a mandatory evacuation zone.

The Palm Beach Post maintains a list of pet shelters online at www.palmbeachpost.com. If you plan to evacuate to a hotel, take your pet with you. Many hotels allow pets (check www.petswelcome.com to see a list), and those that usually don't may make exceptions during emergencies. So call ahead to find out their policy.

The preparations for horse owners are a little different. Make sure to have all vaccinations and a Coggins test updated before hurricane season starts. If you plan on leaving the state with your horse, you will need an interstate health certificate from your veterinarian. Identification is a major concern with horses after a storm; there are several ways you can plan for this.

Luggage tags with your information can be attached to a leather halter and/or attached to the horse's mane (never the tail). You can body clip your phone number onto the horse, or write it with nail polish on the hooves. Fetlock ID bands are also available. The decision to leave your horse in a barn or in the pasture depends on the stability of the structure and the outdoor environment.

Emergency stabling is available on a limited basis through the Sunshine State Horse Council. And, as with any pet, make sure to stock up on food and water well ahead of time.

The key to hurricane safety is being prepared ahead of time, so start planning today.