Ready Pets

Your animals are an important part of your family, so make sure you include them in your emergency plan. If you evacuate, don’t leave them behind.

Plan for pets

Prepare before a disaster

Marin Humane Society suggests the following preparations:

  • Make sure your pet’s license is current and they have a collar, identification tag or microchip.
  • Keep cat and dog carriers in an easily accessible place in case you have to evacuate quickly.
  • Get to know your neighbors and their pets. Ask one of your neighbors to care for your pet in the event you can’t get home.
  • To prevent cages or tanks from falling over during an earthquake, keep them on low tables and secure if possible.
  • Write down the phone number of Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of Marin in San Rafael 415 456-7372.

Gather supplies for your pets

Just as you do for your people family, gather supplies for your furry family and organize into a Stay Box (if you shelter in place) and a Go Bag (if you need to evacuate).

Make sure to include:

  • Food and water (7-day supply for each pet)
  • Litter, litter box, trash bags
  • Medications, copy of vaccination history
  • A photo of you with each of your pets to confirm ownership if you are separated
  • Favorite bedding or toys to calm their stress
  • First Aid Kit, including bandages, scissors, tape, antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide and cone collar

Extreme heat & animals

Extreme heat can impact animals just as much as it does for people. Make sure you follow these guidelines to keep everyone cool and safe.

  • Provide fresh water
  • Never leave pets in cars
  • Avoid exercising
  • Bring pets indoors
  • Provide ample shade & shelter if outdoor
  • Do not walk them on hot surfaces
  • Take extra precaution for overweight/older pets
  • Don’t shave pet completely, coat offers sun protection

Resources

Barnyard Animals Disaster Plan

Having a disaster plan ready for your large and barnyard animals can make all the difference to reduce stress and possibly save lives.

  • Develop a barn safety and evacuation plan
  • Determine food/water requirements during a disaster
  • Prepare a disaster kit

Resources

Barnyard animals

Preparing Makes Sense for Pet Owners