As coastal residents nervously await the first storms of what is expected to be one of the most active and potentially dangerous Atlantic Hurricane seasons on record, authorities are urging households to plan ahead.

That includes planning for the country’s record number of pets.

“Pets are part of the family, so it’s critical to include them in your hurricane preparedness plans,” said Dr. Elizabeth DeLomba, a veterinarian and pet industry consultant in a press release. “Having the right supplies and identifying safe shelters ahead of time can make a huge difference for your pets’ well-being during a hurricane.”

When major climate disasters hit, as they are predicted to do more often, the highest number of casualties are often pets, usually cats and dogs. It’s believed as many as 250,000 pets became stranded during Hurricane Katrina as New Orleans was taken by surprise by an unprecedented storm surge and extreme flooding, exposing poor warning systems, infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and recovery at all levels of government and across civic networks.

Almost 2,000 people and between 70,000 and 150,000 pets died, according to the Animal Welfare Institute, a Washington D.C.-based animal rights advocacy group.

It also reported that around half of the people who chose to stay through Katrina did so because their pets were not permitted to board rescue boats or evacuation buses or stay in emergency shelters. Others left their dogs and cats behind with food and water, believing they’d return in days. The city’s human population didn’t recover for almost 15 years.

Some people even had their dogs euthanized, fearing they would eventually be abandoned or starve to death if left behind with temporary carers. One doctor set up a gas chamber in a dog kennel wrapped in plastic.

These stories played out thousands of times along the Gulf of Mexico after Hurricane Katrina, while dozens of online videos still exist of helpless pets shaking on roofs or precariously balancing on piles of soaked furniture.

Even children had their beloved pets ripped out of their hands by the authorities. News of these tragedies quickly rippled through Congress.

”The scene from New Orleans of a 9-year-old boy crying because he was not allowed to take his little white dog Snowball was too much to bear,” said Democrat U.S. House Rep. Tom Lantos, a Democrat from California. “Personally, I know I wouldn’t have been able to leave my little white dog Masko to a fate of almost certain death. As I watched the images of the heartbreaking choices the Gulf residents had to make, I was moved to find a way to prevent this from ever happening again.”

U.S. Rep. Lantos introduced a bill to help states and the federal government better prepare for evacuees with pets and service animals. President George W. Bush signed it into law in October 2006.

However, as Americans are forced to contend with a record number of climate disasters every year, making a plan for the nation’s 120 million pets is more important than ever.

Although there are many comprehensive guides on preparing your pet for climate disasters like hurricanes, floods and extreme heat, familiarizing yourself with the basics is a good start and may keep you and your pets together and alive during an emergency.

Ten ways to look after your pets before, during and after a climate disaster

Identification and microchipping: Always ensure your pets have proper identification, such as tags, microchips, or tattoos. This can help locate and positively identify your pets if you’re separated during a disaster.

Create an emergency plan: Develop and regularly practice an emergency plan that includes safe evacuation and pet care strategies. Include a meeting point for your family and pets if you get separated.

Prepare a disaster kit: Each pet should have its own disaster kit stored in an easily accessible location. The kit should include food, water, medical records, medications, and familiar items like toys or blankets to reduce stress.

Secure accommodation in advance: Before disaster strikes, research and list pet-friendly shelters, hotels, and veterinary clinics. Ensure these locations can accommodate your pet during an emergency if they were pet-friendly before.

Practice evacuation drills: Familiarize your pet with evacuation procedures and their transport crate. Regular drills will help reduce their anxiety during actual evacuations.

Communication is key: Even if you don’t have a pet, establish a communication plan that includes an out-of-state contact. Ensure all family members know who to call and what to do in an emergency.

Stay informed: Listen out for local emergency protocols and alerts through reliable sources. This will help you make informed decisions quickly in a crisis.

First aid preparedness: Equip yourself with pet first aid knowledge and supplies. Understanding how to treat minor injuries could be vital since professional help may not be available.

Mental health considerations: Recognize and address the mental stress and trauma your pets may experience during and after a disaster. Keep their routine as normal as possible and provide comfort.

Post-disaster recovery: Check your pets for injuries or signs of mental stress after a disaster. Slowly reintroduce them to their usual diet and routine. Monitor their behavior closely for any changes that might require veterinary attention.