Are You Prepared?
With the ongoing threat of wildfires and flooding throughout Yavapai County, everyone should be prepared for an emergency evacuation. There may be little to no time to evacuate. You may not be at or near your home when the evacuation order is issued. We suggest the following to prepare for any emergency evacuation:
1. Prepare a family disaster plan that includes your animals. Make sure all members of your family are familiar with the plan and practice it often.
2. Have evacuation kits (go bags) ready for each family member and animal. Make sure all members of your family are familiar with where the kits are kept. Make sure all kits are easily accessible.
3. Have a buddy system in place in the event you are not at and cannot get home to evacuate.* Make sure your animals are familiar with and friendly towards your buddy. Make sure your buddy is familiar with where your evacuation kits are kept and any other items you may wish to have retrieved.
*It is estimated more than 1,000 pets perished in the Marshall Fire in Colorado. A study showed many pet owners were at work or out of town.
What Should Your Pet's Evacuation Kit Include?
Food, Water & Dishes
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Food, Water & Dishes
This is especially important if your pet has special dietary requirements and/or allergies.
Medication
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Food, Water & Dishes
Speak with your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific needs and availability of prescribed medications.
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Dogs should be familiar with wearing a properly fitting collar or harness and walking on leash. This may take some training for working dogs. Collars/harnesses should have current identification & contact information should you get separated.
Proper Containment
Waste Disposal Supplies
Properly Fitting Collar or Harness
Carriers, crates, cages, or any other suitable method of transporting your pet should ensure its comfort and safety. Check for any weaknesses, broken latches, or any other defect which may allow your pet to get free.
Waste Disposal Supplies
Waste Disposal Supplies
Waste Disposal Supplies
This may include trays, litter, pellets, scoop, trash bags, paper towels, or any other item specific to your pet.
Familiar Items
Waste Disposal Supplies
Waste Disposal Supplies
Toys, blankets, bedding, and treats can help ease anxiety.
First Aid Kit
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
Contents will depend upon your pet. Speak with your veterinarian regarding your pet's specific needs.
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
These are suggested items and will vary depending upon the animal. Make a list of items you use to provide regular care for your pet and include these items in your pet's evacuation kit. For recommendations for large animals, please visit Large Animal Shelters & Emergency Readiness (LASER) at https://laser-shelter.org/
What's Most Important?
Identify Your Pet's Specific Needs
What's Most Important?
Know that there is a place where your pets can be cared for during an evacuation. Don't leave home without them!