As I write this column, Tropical Storm Hanna is lurking off our coast. Ike and Josephine are threatening us from the Atlantic. When it comes to responsible pet ownership, living in Florida has some specific challenges. Before a hurricane is eminent, we need to prepare for our pets as well as ourselves.

It is ideal to prepare a travel pack for your dog. Food, water, bowls and medication should all be at the ready. A copy of its vaccinations and a current picture are good items to keep with your important papers. Extra leashes and an id tag with your cell phone number can be helpful as well. Some organizations suggest having a phone number outside the potential disaster area on the tag. If phone lines are jammed, a non-local contact maybe better. This was true for me in Hurricane Jeanne. I could not call my home, but could reach my family in MD and have them relay messages. Speaking of id, microchips are invaluable during intense weather events. They cannot get lost. Do make sure your contact information is up to date for your dog's microchip.

In my opinion, being able to crate your dog during a hurricane is vital. Most pet friendly shelters and motels require your dog be crated. This is for your dog's safety. In times of chaos, your dogs crate is its safe space. Evacuation is stressful for all of us. Having a portable home for your pet can make the situation more manageable. I have mesh "pup tents" that fold easily and are lightweight. The dogs like them and will happily remain in the tents for quite some time. Your dog must be use to confinement to use mesh crates. Strong toenails and teeth can rip them.

It is well worth the time to crate train your dog. Do not wait until a hurricane is knocking at your door. A crate should be a normal part of your dog's life. While I do not confine my dogs in their crates much any more, they are still trained to use them.

If your dog is not crate trained, start the introduction today. An easy way to make the crate a positive experience is to feed your dog in his crate. You might start with bowl near the front of the crate and gradually move it back so your dog goes inside to eat. Then begin closing the door. Slowly increase the amount of time your dog remains in his den.

Advance preparation is vital during hurricanes and natural disasters. Have your dog's kit ready. Get id tags printed with the appropriate numbers. Make a hotel reservation or arrangements with friends for you and your dog. Dust off the crate and start using it. It looks like another active storm season.

Cissy Sumner of Best Behavior Dog Training is Vero's first Certified Pet Dog Trainer. If you have a training or behavior question, email Cissy at bbdogtraining@bellsouth.net. Visit www.pawprintsofverobeach.com for group training information. Private training is available by appointment.