Animal Preparedness

 There are numerous ways to have your horses prepared for an evacuation. Some are permanent and some are temporary.  Each can be effective in different types disasters. 

• microchip
• tattoo
• halter tag
• neck collars
• leg band
• brand
• mane clip
• luggage tag braided into tail or mane
• clipper-shaved information in the animal’s hair
•  fetlock ID bands (place them on both front feet)
• livestock marking crayon, non-toxic, non-water-soluble spray paint, or non-water-soluble markers to write on the animal’s side
• permanent marker to mark hooves
•  Take a picture of your horse with a family member in the photo as well. Then staple a copy of your Coggins test to the picture, along with other information such as tattoos, microchip ID, special scars and any other permanent identification. Place all these items in a zip-lock bag, and keep them in a safe place where you can get to them after a disaster.

There are numerous ways to identify livestock. What works for one species may not work for another. All are valuable to each species.

• neck chain
• ear notches
• leg band
• ear tag
• brand
• livestock marking crayon, non-toxic, non-water-soluble spray paint, or markers to write on the animal’s side
• wattle notching
• ear tattoo
• back or tail tag

 When planning an evacuation, horses and livestock are harder to make plans for.  Make arrangements ahead of time for your animals outside your immediate area. Some examples of locations to look for are: 

• veterinary or land grant colleges
• racetracks
• show grounds
• pastures
• stables
• fairgrounds
• equestrian centers
• livestock corrals
• stockyards and/or auction facilities
• other boarding facilities

If you do not have enough trailers to quickly transport all of your animals to an evacuation site, contact neighbors, local haulers, farmers, producers or other transportation providers to establish a network of available and reliable resources that can provide transportation in the event of a disaster.

If evacuation of horses/livestock is impossible, relocate them to the safest place possible based on the type of imminent disaster and the environment, realizing that the situation could be life threatening. Make sure they have access to hay or another appropriate and safe food source, as well as clean water and the safest living area possible, including high ground above flood level. Do not rely on automatic watering systems, because power may be lost.

The decision to leave your horses/livestock in the field or in the barn should be based on the risks of injury resulting from the disaster and from the immediate environment during that disaster. Factors to consider include the stability of the barn, the risk of flooding and the amount of trees and debris in the fields. If time permits, secure or remove all outdoor objects that could turn into dangerous flying debris.

The most important thing is make sure your horse is up-to-date with a tetanus booster, West Nile and has had a vaccination for encephalitis, commonly known as sleeping sickness. This disease is carried by mosquitoes and the height of infection is July and August, just when storm, hurricane and flood season is at its height. This disease can kill both humans and horses, and should not be taken lightly. Horses should be vaccinated at least every six months, but most large stables do this every four months.  Make sure you have a current Coggins if out-of-state travel is required.

Keep in mind most facilities will NOT house your horses or livestock if you cannot provide proof of vaccinations.

• State veterinarian
• State veterinary colleges or land grant colleges of agriculture
• Private stables/farms
• County Extension office; especially important for livestock owners
• Brand inspector, if applicable
• State and county livestock associations
• Racetracks
• Fairgrounds
• Show grounds
• Stockyards
• Equestrian centers
• Local haulers or neighbors to help with transportation
• Feed distributor
• American Association of Equine Practitioners 
• American Association of Bovine Practitioners
• American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners
• American Association of Swine Veterinarians
• USDA-APHIS District Director/Assistant Director
• USDA-APHIS Emergency Coordinator

 Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn’t safe for you, it isn’t safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Note that not all shelters accept pets, so it is imperative that you have determined where you will bring your pets ahead of time:

• Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities.
• Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets.
• Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.
• Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.
• Make sure all of your small animals are up to date on vaccinations.

 If you must evacuate your home for a disaster, plan for the worst-case scenario. Even if you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:

• Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification information. Your pet’s ID tag should contain his name, telephone number and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to also write your pet’s name, your name and contact information on your pet’s carrier.
• ALERT recommends microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted under the skin in the animal’s shoulder area, and can be read by a scanner at most animal shelters.
• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home in a crisis.
• Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is, and that it clearly labeled and easy to carry.