Disaster Preparedness & Planning
Natural or man-made disasters can strike at any moment without
notice. Whether the region is afflicted with an earthquake, wildfire,
flood or an act of terrorism, staying composed and knowing what
to do during a crisis situation takes PREPARATION and PRACTICE.
Depending on the severity of the disaster at hand, fire and emergency
medical services may be delayed, roads may be blocked, and the water
supply may be contaminated. You must be prepared to survive on your
own until help arrives. Click on the links below to learn how to
design your own emergency plan and how to make a disaster supplies
kit. Information is courtesy of the American Red Cross.
Disaster Preparedness for Pets and Livestock
A very important part of your disaster plan is how you plan to
transport and care for your pets and/or livestock. If you evacuate
your property prior to or during a disaster DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS
BEHIND; it's unlikely they will survive on their own.
Important Phone Numbers:
San
Diego Humane Society
Business: (619) 299-7012
24-hour emergency help: (619) 299-0871
San Diego Animal
Control
Business: (760) 438-2312
24-hour emergency help: (760) 438-1460
Making a Plan
Before an emergency occurs, contact your local animal shelter, humane
society or veterinarian for information about caring for animals
during a crisis situation. Find out if there will be any shelters
set-up to take pets in an emergency and ask your veterinarian whether
they will accept your pet during a disaster. Find out well in advance
whether any local hotels or motels will allow pets.
Assembling a Pet Emergency Preparedness Kit
Not only do you and your loved ones need adequate provisions to
survive a disaster, your pets and livestock need an emergency kit,
as well. Be sure to include these items:
- A secure pet carrier and leash or harness. Your animals should
be accustomed to the pet carrier to allow for a quick evacuation
if needed.
- A well-fitting collar/leash with current rabies, license and
ID tags. Be sure your pet's ID tag contains your name, address
and current phone number.
- Current health records and a color photo of your pet.
- Litter box, litter and scooper
- Enough food and bottled water for several days.
- Food and water bowls, and a can opener
- Favorite toy, bones, treats, etc.
- Any prescriptions and other supplies for pets with special
needs.
- Blankets
- A first-aid kit
Larger Animals and Livestock
Arrangements for evacuation of large animals and livestock, including
escape routes and host sites, should be made FAR IN ADVANCE. Make
arrangements for the use of trucks, trailers and other vehicles,
as well as experienced handlers and drivers to transport the animals.
Whenever possible, familiarize your animals with these vehicles
in advance so they are less frightened, making for an effortless
evacuation.
For further information about disaster planning, please click on
the following links:
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