Protecting Your Pets in an Emergency

Pet owners face additional challenges during disasters. Preparation will improve the safety and security of both you and your pet.

Before:

Take your pet with you when possible. Having your animal with you eliminates the stress of wondering if your pet is all right, and being with you reduces your pet’s fear as well.

Learn which hotels and motels allow pets, and which ones accept pets during a disaster, even if they wouldn't usually.

Arrange for friends and family in neighboring towns to house you and/or your pet following a disaster.

Allow your pet time to become accustomed to its form of transportation. For dogs and cats, this includes crates, boxes, and the inside of cars or the beds of trucks. Larger animals should be exposed on a regular basis to the trucks and cars they will be transported in. Being in a familiar place helps keep the animals calm and makes them easier to handle.

Design a disaster-kit (one per animal) that includes non-perishable food, medicines, first aid items like bandages and wipes, vaccination records, and any pet insurance information.

Arrange for your neighbor to collect your pet in case you are unable to get home. Make sure they know where the food is and how best to care for your pet.

During and After:

Do not rush. Stay focused and steady. Place your pet in its transport with items that may help keep the animal calm, like toys, cushions, or blankets. Avoid placing food or water in the carrier until the evacuation has concluded.

Don't forget to grab the disaster-kit and any items that may
help you pet stay calm during the transition. A disaster that
frightens you may panic your pet.

Prepare the moment you hear the warning and leave as
quickly as possible. This will keep your pet from becoming more
frightened then it has to and it will also help you keep your cool.

Your pet will not understand what is happening. After you
reach a safe location, take time to give your pet attention, such
as petting and brushing, and give it food and water as well.
Knowing you still care and are concerned will keep your pet
relaxed in the strange environment.

Allow your pet to calm down. Your pet may have been
extremely frightened during the evacuation and the actual
disaster and may be acting strangely. Calm, sweet pets have
been known to become violent when scared. Don't get mad or
frightened. Be patient and wait for your pet to relax.

Owners have been known to forget the most obvious things
during disasters, and many pets have experienced food and
water deprivation due to the confusion. To avoid this, regularly
check you pet's food and water and be open to giving out special
treats. The rewards only further comfort your pet.

Sometimes you are unable to personally care for your pet. Perhaps you have a large animal and cannot house it somewhere for the time being. Even small animals sometimes prove difficult for people in transition. In these events, the Ventura County Humane Society is willing to help. The Humane Society, located at 402 Bryant Street in Ojai, is able to temporarily house animals during disasters. They will care for your pet until you are able to reclaim it, and they offer this service at no charge. If a disaster leaves you uncertain about your ability to care for your pet, the Humane Society lets you leave it somewhere where you know it will be safe.