As wildfires and other emergency situations loom, alongside the potential for ICE encounters that could lead to deportation, the need for proactive pet safety measures is urgent, according to C.A.R.E.4Paws, working in partnership with Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS).

The two groups have developed an essential Emergency Preparedness Guide for Pet Families, aimed at helping pet owners navigate the challenges of sudden displacement, evacuations, and risks of separation.

Pet families in marginalized communities in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties face significant challenges, according to C.A.R.E.4Paws and SBCAS. For many, providing veterinary care, shelter, and food for companion animals has become increasingly challenging.

Recent LA fires are a reminder that families also face the potential of emergency evacuations due to wildfires, and some face the sudden separation from their pets through displacement, including deportation.

Leaving pets out of evacuation plans, and other unforeseen circumstances can expose them to risk of injury, loss or worse. C.A.R.E.4Paws and SBCAS are proponents of keeping pets healthy, safe, and with their families for life.

“Pets offer essential comfort and companionship, especially during hard times, but managing their care during evacuations or threats of sudden displacement can be incredibly difficult,” said Isabelle Gullö, C.A.R.E.4Paws’ cofounder and executive director. “Fortunately, there are many ways to prepare for whatever challenges a pet family may encounter.”

Having a plan in place when disaster strikes, whether a wildfire, flood, or unexpected evacuation, ensures that no family member — two- or four-legged — is left behind, said Sarah Aguilar, director of SBCAS, which takes in evacuated pets at its three shelter locations during disasters and sometimes houses animals at larger facilities, such as Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara.

“Emergency situations unfold quickly, and pet owners may have only minutes to leave their homes. Families can act swiftly and avoid unnecessary heartbreak by creating an evacuation plan that includes pets, complete with supplies, transportation and a safe destination,” she said.

Aguilar emphasizes the importance of proactive planning for families at risk of sudden displacement.

“Emergencies can arise in various forms, not just from natural disasters. It’s essential for families to have a strategy in place for their pets to ensure their safety and care under any circumstances,” she said. “Identifying reliable caregivers and being aware of community resources in advance can significantly impact outcomes.”

How to be prepared for an evacuation

Make a plan for your pet now that includes shelter options and quick and easy access to all its needs when packing quickly.

Establish a plan with a trusted neighbor to evacuate your pet and essential supplies if an emergency occurs while you are away. Be sure to agree on a designated meeting spot in advance.

Ensure your pet(s) is microchipped and wear collars and tags with up-to-date contact information.

• Have a photo of your pet(s) on your phone and printed.
• Prepare a go-bag with essentials. Include at least 3-7 days of pet food and water, collars, leashes, a crate, if needed, and medications and medical records in a waterproof bag.
• Have a plan ahead of time for your pet. Many human shelters and hotels do not allow pets, so coordinate with a friend or relative who lives outside your immediate area and can take your pet if needed.
• Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are current, and keep a picture of proof on your phone. Some animal shelters may request that information.
• Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local animal shelters and rescues. Contact Santa Barbara County Animal Services for shelter information, 833-422-8413.
• Licensing your dog is crucial for ensuring they can be quickly identified and located within the shelter system:
• Santa Barbara County: countyofsb.org/1397/Animal-Licensing
• City of Santa Barbara: petdata.com/for-pet-owners/sba
• San Luis Obispo County: slocounty.ca.gov/departments/health-agency/animal-services/services-offered/dog-licensing
• For evacuation information for horses and barn animals, contact SBCAS and Santa Barbara Humane, 805-964-4777.
• Stay informed by signing up for local emergency alerts, which provide up-to-date evacuation guidance. You can sign up for SBCAS alerts at readysbc.org.
• If you need help with low-cost vaccines, microchipping and other basic care to prepare for unforeseen circumstances, visit one of C.A.R.E.4Paws’ mobile Pet Wellness Clinics in your area. For the clinic schedule and details, visit care4paws.org/clinicservices.

Be prepared for possible displacement

Pets left behind may suddenly find themselves abandoned in homes without access to food, water or essential care. Share an emergency care plan with trusted friends, relatives or neighbors that includes the name and number of someone who has committed to providing temporary care for the pet.
• Research shelters or animal rescue organizations that can assist with shelter, food and care. Many shelters have partnered with immigrant rights groups to provide coordinated assistance.
• Immigrants can take steps in advance to safeguard their ownership rights over their pets in case of deportation through legal documents like proof of ownership. This proactive measure can provide a sense of security. Keep important documents such as adoption papers, veterinary records and receipts that verify their ownership of the pet.

The nonprofit C.A.R.E.4Paws relies on partnerships and the community’s support to do its work; to get involved, visit care4paws.org/how-to-help.

To support Santa Barbara County Animal Services, including through its shelter-pet wish lists, by becoming a foster family or by adopting a pet, visit countyofsb.org/415/Animal-Services.

If you have lost or found a pet, go to countyofsb.org/1420/Lost-Found.