Pets are valued members of our families and should be included in emergency plans.
It鈥檚 vital to prepare for your companion pets and livestock in case of emergency evacuations. Make plans to take them with you if you are notified to evacuate. Pets should wear a collar or harness and identification tags. Dogs must also wear a license and rabies tags.
Follow these steps to ensure you and your animals are ready for any situation:
- Sign up for Emergency Notifications at to receive alerts about immediate threats to life and property. Signing up is free. Message and data rates may apply depending on your provider and phone service.
- Develop an Emergency Plan that includes your pets to reduce stress and confusion during emergencies. Ensure animal safety, feeding, and transportation are included in your plan. Have vehicles, trailers, handlers, and evacuation plans ready. Be sure to inform friends and neighbors of your evacuation plans.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit tailored to your animals鈥� needs, including food, water, medications, and other essentials. Keep vital information, identification, vaccination records, and first aid kits readily available.
- Visit for more information on preparing pets for disasters.
Disaster preparedness is important for all animals, but it is particularly important for horses, cows, goats, and other farm animals due to their unique size and transportation needs. Know where you will take your animals in an emergency evacuation. Plan with a friend or another livestock animal owner to stable your animals if needed.
In the case of an evacuation, a large animal shelter may be opened. Monitor the Coconino County Health and Human Services website () and Facebook () to be notified if a shelter has been opened.
Ask yourself the following questions to ensure you are fully prepared:
- Are you signed up for emergency notifications?
- Do others have access to your home to care for your pets in case of emergency?
- Have you packed go bags for your pets with essentials for seven days?
- Do you have a plan for evacuating and caring for your livestock animals?
- Are your animals microchipped and up to date on medical records?
- Do you have a list of important contact information, such as your veterinarian, boarding facility, animal shelter, or local friends/family, for your pets?
Remember, a well-thought-out plan that includes your pets is crucial for the safety and well-being of your entire family during emergencies.