PREPARE YOURSELF

As part of your evacuation plan, prepare an evacuation kit for each
animal (Dogs, Cats, chickens and other small animals):

Identification to prove ownership (include your name, address, phone number and a photo of your animals)
Carriers, crates, kennels, leashes, to contain your small animals (and bedding)
Food (and bowls) for a minimum of 7 days for all of your animals
Medication your animals may need and a first aid kit
Medical and vaccination records
Poop bags, cat litter and/or Handi-wipes to clean up after your animals
Blankets, bedding, and toys

If you need assistance, call Animal Services at 619-236-2341

Bring pets inside at the early signs of a wildfire–that way if an evacuation notice is issued they’ll be close, and you won’t have to spend time searching for them outdoors.
If the fire is nearby and evacuation is expected, place them in carriers near the front door, with food and water.
If possible, take pets with you when evacuating; they could encounter problems when left on their own, and you could have difficulty locating them when you return.
Don’t ever delay leaving home during a fire to find pets; your personal safety could depend on a quick exit!

Keep your pet’s license current and make sure that a collar and identification tag are worn at all times. Consider getting a safe, permanent microchip for your pet.
Train your dog or cat to enter a carrier on command. This will help you quickly locate and safely transport him to safety in times of emergency.
Secure Birdcages and Fish Tanks Because these items may move and/or break during a disaster, securing them on low stands or tables will be helpful. Also, tighten the latch on your birdcage so that the door cannot be shaken open easily.
Get to know your neighbors and their pets. Keep an updated list of their home, work, and mobile phone numbers (update every six months) and select a neighborhood coordinator who will be ready to assist should a disaster occur when you are not home. It is best that this person spends a lot of time at home or works within walking distance of the neighborhood. Select one or two back-up coordinators, in case the primary person is unavailable.

Many human evacuation centers cannot accept pets due to health and safety regulations. Often, only service animals are permitted in an evacuation center. If your family will be staying at a public shelter during an evacuation, it’s important to know animals may not be allowed to stay with you.
Red Cross shelters do not accept pets. So, prepare a list of back-up arrangements, such as homes of friends and family,hotels that allow pets, boarding facilities, veterinary hospitals, and/or animal shelters. If at all possible, DO NOT leave your
pet behind when evacuating.
If you must leave your pet during an evacuation, follow these guidelines to help ensure your pet’s safety: • Post a highly visible sign in a window to let rescue workers know how many pets were left behind. • Leave plenty of water in a large, open container which cannot be tipped over. • Leave food in timed feeders (check local pet stores). These will prevent your pet from eating a week’s worth of food in one day. • NEVER cage your pet as the chances for survival are greater if your pet can escape easily