Disasters can strike quickly and without warning –  If it is not safe for you to stay in your home – it is not safe for your pet either

The Ontario SPCA has some good information on emergency preparedness for pets.

It’s important to develop and create a 72 hour Pet Emergency Survival Kit, much like we would for ourselves and our families.

Creating a Pet Emergency Survival Kit:
•72 hour food supply, including bowls and a can opener
•72 hour water supply
•Blankets/towels
•Toys
•Leash, muzzle, harness
•Litter pan, litter, plastic bags and scooper
•Pet carrier to allow for easy transport
•Medical records, Veterinarian’s name and contact number
•Medications and a pet first aid kit
•Current photo of your pet along with their name, address and brief description
•Information on your pets feeding schedule, temperament/behaviour, medical concerns
•ID tags and Micro chip number
•Flashlight
•List of boarding facilities, hotels that can accommodate pets

You should check the Kit twice a year and updated it as necessary. Ensure that there is always fresh water and food, medication and restock any items that may have been used from it.    Remember your ability to care for your pet during a time of emergency will depend on how well you have prepared for it. Take the time to create a Pet Emergency Survival Kit; it may just very well save your pets life one day.

Emergency Management Oceanside
During an emergency, pets may become frightened and hide, sometimes becoming lost or trapped. Whether you are staying put or evacuating, having a pet emergency plan and kit and practicing for emergencies will help to ensure the health and safety of these important family members. If you evacuate your home, do not leave your pets behind.

The South Island Pets Team was formed in May of 2012 by Emergency Social Service (ESS) members from each of the 13 municipalities of Greater Victoria. Working together, they created resources and information to be used in a time of need. As time passed, they recognized the need for a formal “pets team” to assist in disaster emergency response for people’s beloved pets.

Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team  (CDART)
The Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team (CDART) is dedicated to animal welfare through the preparation for and the actual rescue and shelter of domestic animals in a disaster.

CDART- Vancouver Island BC
A place for CDART-Vancouver Island BC volunteers.

Vancouver Island Emergency Horse /Animal/ Livestock Evacuation
A Resource group for Vancouver Island BC.  In cases of emergencies , of fire, flood etc.  Supporters offering/needing help, during necessary evacuations of animals/people such as, but not limited to: Horses, Livestock, goats, sheep, pigs, chickens and birds. Haulers with equipment, properties and supplies.

Vancouver Island Livestock Emergency Contact Group
Information should people need to evacuate their animals. This group is for Vancouver Island and gulf island livestock (of any kind) owners to post if they are needing help or help offered. I.E. truck, trailering, stalls and paddocks.

Horse Council of B.C.  (HCBC)
Disaster Preparedness Guidelines for Horse Owners
Your horses are your responsibility. In BC there is no designated government or disaster agency responsible for the evacuation, transportation and temporary stabling of horses during large scale incidents.

Horse Emergency Checklist – BC SPCA

CARE – Coastal Animal Rescue & Education Network
CARE Network works to better the lives of animals along the west coast of Vancouver Island. We provide animal emergency response services, temporary foster care, transportation, spay/neuter and other immediate care for animals – domestic and wild.

Gabriola Pets and Livestock Services (PALS)
PALS focus is on animal welfare, especially in the aftermath of a disaster or widespread emergency.  This includes establishing locations at ESS Reception Centres for pets and livestock. Experienced volunteers will receive any pets and livestock and move them into a shelter where they will be cared for and, if necessary, provide emergency animal first aid.
ESS PALS also provides education and training for:

• Preparedness for safeguarding your animals
• How to prepare a “Grab + Go” Kit
• Handling and care of traumatized animals
• Search and rescue
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