The head of Los Angeles County’s Animal Care and Control Department is urging pet owners to prepare an evacuation kit for their animals in case of an emergency.
In a blog, Marcia Mayeda noted that a recent series of massive brush fires in the state “underscore the importance of having an emergency plan that includes your pets.”
“Because many people must evacuate at a moment’s notice, this plan should be completed and ready to implement immediately,” she wrote.
Evacuation kits for dogs, cats and small companion animals should include:
— five days of pet food;
— collapsible food and water containers;
— extra leashes and harnesses;
— toys, blankets, treats and other items to comfort your pet in a strange environment;
— a collapsible crate to safely confine your pet;
— clear photographs of your pet, including full-body pictures from both sides and a close-up of their face;
— copies of vaccination and pet licensing records;
— microchip information, including the pet’s microchip ID number and the issuing company;
— a list of all medications taken by your pet, with a week’s supply in the kit and a note of the diagnosis or reason the pet takes the medication in case someone else has to provide care for the pet; and
— flea and tick medication.
Owners of horses and livestock are urged to take a series of measures, including:
— have a list of all medications, special feed, medical issues or other needs your animals may have;
— include copies of vaccinations, particularly for strangles, equine infectious anemia and West Nile virus for horses;
— have clear photos of animals — both full-body photos from both sides along with any brands, ear tags, ear notches or other identifying information;
— bring fly masks, fly sheets, halters, lead ropes and other items for your animals’ comfort;
— ensure your horses or other livestock will quickly and obediently load;
— make sure your trailer is safe and functional and perform a complete safety check on the vehicle;
— microchip livestock and keep the microchip records up to date, with copies in the evacuation kit; and
— write phone number on the horses’ hooves or attach an equine-specific safety band with identifying information.