While residents on Delmarva and other east coast areas
                                            consider how they'll prepare for hurricanes this season, The Humane Society of
                                            the United States (HSUS), the nation's largest animal protection organization,
                                            urges pet owners to make arrangements to evacuate their animals.

                                            For hurricane season, June 1 to November 30, 2000, The HSUS offers the
                                            following tips:

                                                 If you evacuate, do not leave your pets behind! Pets cannot survive on
                                                 their own, and you may not be able to find them when you return to your
                                                 home.
                                                 Securely fasten an up-to-date identification tag on your pet's collar. If
                                                 possible, also include the address and/or telephone number of the site
                                                 you will be evacuating to. Carry a photo of your pet with you for
                                                 identification purposes.
                                                 Make sure you have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness for your pets so
                                                 they won't escape.
                                                 For public health reasons, most emergency shelters will not accept pets.
                                                 Call ahead to motels and hotels in safe areas to find out if they will allow
                                                 you to bring your pets. Work with the hotel manger to get "no pets"
                                                 policies temporarily lifted.
                                                 If you and your pet can't stay together after you evacuate, contact friends,
                                                 family, veterinarians and boarding kennels in safe areas to arrange for
                                                 foster care. Send medicine, medical records, food, feeding information and
                                                 other supplies with your pet.
                                                 Be sure to pack a week's worth of food and water for both you and your
                                                 pet. If you have a cat, you'll need litter and a litter pan. Also remember to
                                                 take a can opener, food dishes and any medication your pet might need.
                                                 Don't wait until the last minute to evacuate if you have animals. Once the
                                                 disaster is imminent, if the only way out is by official rescue transport,
                                                 emergency officials may not allow you to take your pets when they bring
                                                 you out.
                                                 Keep a list of emergency phone numbers (vet, animal control, Red Cross,
                                                 etc.) accessible.

                                            The HSUS offers a brochure, "Pets and Disasters: Get Prepared," which can be
                                            obtained free of charge by sending a business-size self-addressed, stamped
                                            envelope, to:

                                                 The HSUS
                                                 2100 L St. NW
                                                 Washington, DC 20037