Ready Pets

Marin Humane Society suggests these steps to get prepared:

• Make sure your pet’s license is current. Make sure 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 case you can’t get home.
• To keep cages or tanks from falling over during an earthquake, keep them on low tables. Secure them if possible.
• Write down the phone number of Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of Marin in San Rafael: 415-456-7372.

Organize these supplies into a go-bag and a stay box (in case you have to shelter in place). Make sure to include:

• A 3-day supply of food and water for each of your pets
• Litter, litter box, trash bags
• Medications and a copy of their vaccination history
• A photo of you with each of your pets to confirm ownership if you are separated
• Favorite bedding or toys
• A first aid kit. Include bandages, scissors, tape, antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide, and cone collar.

Extreme heat can impact animals just as much as it does for people. These guidelines will help you keep your pets cool and comfortable: 

• Provide fresh water
• Never leave pets in cars
• Avoid exercising your pet too much
• Bring pets indoors
• Provide ample shade and shelter if outdoor
• Do not walk pets on hot surfaces. Use the "5-second rule." Place your hand on the surface for 5-7 seconds. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your pet.
• Take extra precautions for overweight or older pets
• Don’t shave your pet completely, because their coat offers sun protection

Having a disaster plan for your larger barnyard animals can make all the difference.

• Develop a barn safety and evacuation plan
• Determine what your animals’ food and water requirements would be during a disaster
• Prepare a disaster kit

Read a barnyard animal preparedness guide from the Marin County Humane Society.