Orange County Animal Services urges residents to begin making preparations for an active hurricane season. Forecasters say there is a 70 percent chance of having nine to 14 named storms, of which four to seven could become hurricanes. For those with pets, preparation needs to start today.
“It is important for pet owners to have a written disaster plan that includes their pets,” said Orange County Animal Services Manager, Katherine Lockett. “Under no circumstances should people leave their pets behind,” says Lockett. We recommend pet owners begin making arrangements for a place to stay in the event of an evacuation. Orange County Government will offer pet friendly shelters. Locations will be announced by the Office of Emergency Management as storms approach.
The best way to protect your family from a disaster is to have a written disaster plan. If you have pets, your plan must include them. Being prepared could save their lives and yours!
In a hurricane, if you live in a mobile home or in an area prone to flooding, YOU MUST EVACUATE, and your pet should NOT be left behind. But, remember highways will be very busy, so leave early!
In the event of a wildfire, hazardous materials release, or other disaster, Orange County Animal Services strongly encourages you to take your pets if evacuating an area.
Pets may not be permitted in Red Cross Shelters, Orange County does operate pet friendly shelters (PDF - 198 KB). Plan to go to a friend's, relative's, or a hotel or motel where your properly contained pet is welcome. Do not wait until a disaster to do your research, it could cost your pet his or her life.
If you do not live in a mobile home or flood plain area, and your home is secure, you do not have to evacuate, unless ordered to do so by local authorities. Prepare your home with hurricane shutters and stay there.
Prepare a list of veterinarians and boarding kennels that shelter pets in an emergency. If you plan to go to a public shelter, make arrangements with a kennel, veterinarian, or a dependable friend to keep your pet.
Contact the American Automobile Association for The Pet Book, a listing of hotels and motels which accept pets. If you have notice of impending disaster, call ahead for reservations.
Have a pet carrier for each pet, where your pet can stand and turn around. For cats, have enough room for a small litter box inside. Write your name, address, phone number, and a phone number of someone outside the area, on the carrier.
Pet food, water, bowls, cat litter/box, medications, and manual can opener.
Newspapers, plastic bags, cleanser and disinfectants to handle pet wastes.
Cotton sheet to cover the carrier to keep your pet calm.
First Aid Kit – ask your veterinarian for the supplies appropriate for your pet.
In Orange County, please call 311 for updated information regarding emergency shelter arrangements for you and your pets
Stock up on pet food and supplies
Bring all pets in the house so you won't have to search for them
Make sure all animals wear a collar with current identification on them, including a number of a friend or relative outside of the area.
Current rabies certificate and tag
Medical history
All medications
Portable carrier
Food, water, and bowls
Litter & litter box for cats
Leash for dogs
Collar and identification on your pet
Disaster planning kit
You may not be home if an evacuation order comes. Find a trusted friend who is willing to take your pets and meet you at a prearranged location. This person should be comfortable with your pets, know where the pets should be, know where your disaster supplies and kits are, and have a key to your home. Share your plan with friends and relatives.
Birds
Transport birds in a secure travel carrier. Cover the carrier to provide the pet with additional security. During warm weather, carry a plant mister to mist the bird's feathers often. Do not put water inside the carrier during transport. Provide fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content. If the carrier does not have a perch, line it with paper towels and change them frequently. Keep the carrier in a quiet area.
Pocket Pets
Small mammals (hamsters, gerbils, etc.) should be transported in secure carriers suitable for maintaining the animals while sheltered. Take bedding materials, food, bowls, and water bottles.
Reptiles
Snakes can be transported in a pillowcase, placed inside a secure carrier. If your snakes require frequent feedings, carry food with you. Take a water bowl large enough for soaking and a heating pad. When transporting lizards, follow the same instructions as for birds.
Community & Environmental Services 
