San Diego City Wire

Ahead of peak wildfire season, County Animal Services is offering pet preparedness information to the public and collaborating with community volunteers for emergency assistance.

Animal Services staff have participated in three emergency response and preparedness fairs to provide guidance and resources on pet disaster preparedness. Additionally, they have hosted six comprehensive training sessions for about 70 dedicated volunteers. These trainings cover essential skills such as large animal handling, loading and unloading, scouting, trailer driving, and overall management during a disaster.

County experts advise residents to prepare their families by making evacuation plans and gathering food and other supplies. The same can be done for family pets, including livestock. Planning is key to emergency preparedness for all.

The County Emergency and Animal Services departments recommend preparing and practicing a disaster plan with all family members and assembling emergency supplies ahead of time. Household pet necessities include a supply of food and water, a crate or carrier, leash, medicines, copies of current veterinary records, and several recent photographs of your furry, feathered or scaly friend. See the full list of items that should be in each of your pets’ emergency kits.

If you need to evacuate your home during an emergency, do not leave your pets behind. You may not be able to return home or to the animal enclosure for an extended period. Structural damage could allow your pet to escape or permit other animals or natural elements to enter and harm your pet.

Be prepared to quickly evacuate with your pets. If evacuation seems possible, do it earlier rather than later. Do not wait until the last minute.

Animal Services has specific emergency preparedness recommendations for livestock owners since moving horses and other large animals takes time and practice.

Ensure your pet wears a collar with identification and an emergency contact number. Having ID on your animals may help reunite you if separated. Another safeguard is microchipping in case your pet loses its collar. Microchipping services are available at Animal Services' shelters.

With these simple preparation steps, your entire family can be ready for unexpected events like wildfires, earthquakes, flooding or other emergencies.

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