The beginning of the year is a purrrrrfect time to update emergency plans, whether personal, family or business plans.  Changes in laws and government programs often become effective on January 1, potentially changing how plans would work or how we would want them to work.  Often, the holidays have brought another kind of change…a furry, finny, or feathery addition to the family. If you were so blessed, be sure to address the needs of your new companion in your plan and preparations.  Guidance is available from FEMA, state and local agencies, animal welfare organizations and the AVMA.Hurricane Katrina demonstrated the need to include animals in emergency preparedness.  Many people refused to evacuate because public shelters and buses would not allow them to bring their pets. State and local governments were inadequately prepared to deal with thousands of abandoned animals.A new documentary, “Mine,” chronicles the challenges faced by people and pets separated by the chaos of Hurricane Katrina.  For more information about the film read BeyondChron: San Francisco’s Alternative Online Daily News » Of Dogs and Disasters: “Mine” Film Review.