MIAMI – With Hurricane Matthew approaching Florida's east coast, animal activists are reminding pet owners and farmers to take precautions.

Authorities asked residents living in low-lying areas and mobile homes in Broward and Palm Beach counties to evacuate. Broward County Mayor Marty Kiar said the evacuations are voluntary but strongly encouraged them.

Rachel Querry, of The Humane Society of the United States, said residents should include pets in their evacuation plans and consider putting together a basic disaster kit.

PETS

If the cats and dogs don't have implanted microchips, they should be wearing collars or identification tags with a phone number, The Humane Society suggests.

The Millenium Middle School, 5803 NW 94th Ave., shelter opens at 9 p.m. in Tamarac, and the West Boynton Recreation Center, 6000 Northtree Blvd., opens at 4 p.m. in Lake Worth.

The shelters require a valid proof of residence, proof of rabies vaccination, license tag and the contact information of the pet's veterinarian. The shelters do not allow reptiles.

Pet-friendly shelters will likely be at full occupancy soon after they open late Wednesday, so animal activists suggest you have alternative plans.

All pets will be placed in crates at the shelters.

The Humane Society in Broward has a list of pet friendly lodging. Dog Friendly lists La Quinta Inn & Suites as the most popular pet friendly hotel and the Pets Welcome data base includes Courtyard Marriott, Quality Inn and Comfort Inn & Suites.

Private services such as Help 2 Pet maintain a database with the pet's emergency contacts including dog walkers, pet sitters and veterinarians.

FARMERS

The Humane Society issued a checklist for farmers:

Keep proof of ownership

Identify animals with plastic neckbands displaying owner's contact information

Prepare water, feed and supplies for sanitation for at least three days.

Don't miss a minute of Local 10's coverage of Hurricane Matthew. Click here to subscribe to Local10.com weather alerts, breaking news and email newsletters.