Walnut Creek Dog Owners Group

PET EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PROJECT

Be prepared for both personal and community emergencies.

Accidents, fires, medical emergencies, hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes and tidal waves can happen to anyone. It's important to be prepared for anything. By following the simple process below, your pet(s) can be cared for whether you're involved in a personal emergency or community disaster. Get ready now instead of wishing you had later.

BEFORE A DISASTER

Preparation is a two-step process:

1. Put together an an emergency kit for your pets. In your wallet carry a card, next to the other emergency information, that says PETS AT HOME and list names and phone numbers of neighbors/friends who can get in and rescue your pets.

2. Enlist the aid of at least two neighbors. Ideally, they have different schedules so one of them is likely to be home when you're gone. The neighbors:
a. know your animals and they are comfortable together.
b. know where you keep the emergency kit.
c. have keys to your home.
d. will check your home at time of a disaster. You may be unable to get home or phone.

Review the Humane Society recommendations.

Review Web sites with preparedness information.

Have an emergency kit.

Know which motels are pet friendly.

Plan to Take Your Pets

Do not leave them behind. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them.

Find a Safe Place Ahead of Time

Evacuation shelters will NOT accept pets except for service animals. Make a list of pet-friendly places outside your immediate area and keep a phone list handy. List friends,motels, boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals. Consult the motels list on this web site for a starting point.

Identification

License your dogs. Besides legal issues, there are advantages if your pet is lost andturned in to the County shelter. Microchip animals, including indoor cats. Keep all information on tags current. If you or your emergency contacts move, update information with the agencies.

Vaccinations

Keep current. Boarding places require proof of vaccination status.

Prepare pet for being crated

Crate train before disaster strikes. Have crates ready to take with you.

In Case You’re Not Home

Make arrangements with a neighbor who is home much of his/her time or within work walking distance. Select another neighbor for backup. They should be comfortable with your pets.

AFTER A DISASTER

For a few days, don’t allow pets to roam loose. Familiar landmarks and smells might be gone; pet can become disoriented and easily lost. Be ready for behavioral problems that result from the stress of the situation. Get back to normal routine as soon as possible.

If Your Pet Is Lost

Visit each shelter in your area once every other day. Take current photo with you.
Create a flyer with pet’s photo description, pet’s name, your name and phone number(s)
Call neighbors and service workers such as mail carriers and PG&E workers.
Continue search. It’s not uncommon for people to be reunited with pets weeks, or even months, after they are lost.

Animals Not Cats or Dogs

A supply of food and other equipment necessary for the care of all animals should bekept in preparation for evacuation or for easy pickup by an assigned caretaker.

Bird Cages and Aquariums

Secure hanging cages so they won’t swing or fall. Tighten latch on bird cage so the door can’t be shaken open. Remember, birds must eat daily to survive. Secure aquariums on low tables. Keep a container with a lid to transport fish if necessary.

Small Mammals and Reptiles

These animals should be transported in secure carriers suitable for them to remain in while out of the home.