Culver City Observer -

Include Pets When Planning

For Emergencies

If you are a pet owner, the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health wants you to keep your four-legged, feathered or scaled friends’ needs in mind when developing your family’s emergency plan.

This information is provided as part of the new Los Angeles County Community Disaster Resilience (LACCDR) Project.

The project emphasizes getting to know your neighbors so you can plan with them and be ready for emergencies. Research from recent disasters has shown communities that know each other and prepare together survive better during emergencies and recover more quickly afterward.

Here is a checklist to ensure your favorite dog, cat, bird or gecko is emergency ready along with your family.

· Get to know your neighbors and let them know you have pets.

· License and register your dog or cat with LA County. You can also choose to supplement this with microchip registration. If your pet gets separated from you in an emergency, reunification is more likely if your pet is registered.

· In case of any emergency, designate who in your family is responsible for pets.

· Have a crate, cage or other container to safely evacuate your pet if necessary.

· Your household emergency kit should include the following essential items for your pet:

o A 3-day supply of pet food – (if canned, don’t forget the can opener!)

o One gallon of water per day per pet stored in clear plastic containers

o A 7-day supply of necessary pet medications

o Health, immunization and identity records for your pet stored in a waterproof portable container

o Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets

o Current photos of your pets in case they get lost

o Sturdy leashes or harnesses to ensure that your animals don’t run away

· Prior to an emergency, determine the location and make a list of facilities, veterinarians, or alternate residences that could shelter your pet. Include 24-hour phone numbers.

· Bring pets inside as soon as you receive severe weather warnings to avoid separation. If possible, crate smaller animals prior to the event to ensure your pet is contained and remains with family members.

· If you have no choice but to leave your dog or cat behind in your home, do not crate the pet; leave food and water and return home as soon as possible.

· Mark your home with identifying stickers so first responders know pets are present in the home.

For more general information, visit bereadyla.org.