If you only had fifteen minutes to pack up and evacuate your home, do you know what priceless items to take or personal items that you would need. What about your pets? Do you have food for them? How about their papers? What about larger animals like horses or sheep?
This summer wildfires caused hundreds of home owners to evacuate their homes. These wildfires have underscored the needs for pet owners to be ready in case of an emergency that requires them to evacuate. On September 13th at 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. SCRAPS, the Spokane Department of Emergency Management and HEART (Humane Evacuation Animal Rescue Team) are offering a free class on how to be prepared in case you must evacuate with your pets or shelter in place.
“The best advice we can give any pet owner is to have a plan,” said Nancy Hill, Regional Director of SCRAPS. “Pet owners need to assemble an animal emergency supply kit and develop a pet care buddy system with a friend or neighbor.”
Leaving your home isn’t the only issue pet owners may face. A train derailment in Western Washington is an example of sheltering in place. Authorities may advise people to stay in their homes and pet owners should have at least a three day of supply for themselves and their pets on hand.
“It is important for you and your family to prepare for emergencies and especially when you may have to evacuate with your pets,” said Hill. “Having a crate so your pet feels safe, familiar food, medication, I.D. tags, and medical records will make it less stressful for you and your pet(s).”
Information will be available at the class on how pet owners can prepare for emergencies, a list of supplies they need and different scenarios that pet owners may encounter.
About SCRAPS: Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service (SCRAPS) is a progressive municipal animal care and protection agency serving, the cities of Spokane, Spokane Valley, Cheney, Deer Park, Fairfield, Liberty Lake, Medical Lake, Millwood, Rockford and the unincorporated areas of Spokane County. SCRAPS has deputized animal protection officers extensively trained to enforce animal laws and respond to emergency situations. SCRAPS is also active in educational and community outreach programs and is dedicated to its continued investment in innovative behavioral programs.
About HEART: HEART assists SCRAPS here in Spokane County to set up temporary emergency pet shelters to care for animals in disasters whether they are man-made or natural. Individual members also deploy with national pet rescue teams around the country as needed.
