When a hurricane or other disaster strikes, animals can become fearful and disoriented, much like their human counterparts.

So along with taking care of family needs, pet owners should think about what they’ll need to make sure their four-legged friends are safe and secure if evacuation is required or water and power service are disrupted.

June marks the start of hurricane season in Hawaii, so it’s a good time to make a checklist for a pet emergency kit.

The necessities include a crate or carrier for each animal that is large enough for the pet to stand, turn and rest comfortably, said Liane Otsuka, an American Red Cross volunteer with Tripler Army Medical Center’s Human Animal Bond Program and Tails of Aloha, which uses pets for therapy at hospitals, nursing homes, hospice facilities and private homes.

Otsuka works as a team with her golden retriever, Indy.

Also on the checklist: an identification tag, collar, leash, current photo, veterinary and shot records, a one- to two-week supply of food, drinking water in unbreakable containers, food and water bowls, grooming and cleaning supplies, and a pet first-aid kit.

Manuals and classes on first aid for cats and dogs are available from the Red Cross.

Otsuka recommends that pets receive microchip implants that will aid in identification in the event they get lost.

"Be very watchful of changes in a pet’s demeanor. Pets can become fearful in emergency situations. This could cause aggression or flight," she said.

To minimize the possibility of pets getting loose and running away, prepare a safe indoor area that provides protection from breaking glass, wind and noise. Crates can be used to keep animals contained if they become frightened.

Don’t leave pets outside during a natural disaster and use caution when taking them out to exercise or use the bathroom.

Otsuka said landmarks or familiar scents may have been altered, which can cause disorientation and increase the possibility of the pet getting lost.

"Plan ahead. Discuss plans with friends and family members who might be able to help with emergency pet care. Never leave pets at home alone if at all possible. You may not be able to return for several days," she said.

If family and friends can’t assist, check with pet day care and boarding facilities. If you decide to wait out the crisis in a pet-friendly evacuation shelter, bring familiar items to help soothe your pet’s anxieties.

"Bring a dog’s bedding and favorite toys since you will be in an unfamiliar place," Otsuka suggests. "Animals will be in their crates, away from owners. They may be afraid and amongst strange, barking dogs. Favorite and familiar items can help comfort them."