Animal Evacuation

In light of the evacuation that took place two days ago, I thought it was time to write up a quick guide to Animal Evacuation. This is based on information from Albany County (Wyoming) Emergency Management. This will cover horses and dogs because that is what I will be evacuating. I’ll include a link for other animals.

The ACEM prepared this information with the focus on bringing animals to a central location. However, it would work for you to transport animals to a private location.

Getting Ready

Take some time to get your animals ready to go.

Dogs

You need a bag or backpack with the following: 

• Feed for 7-10 days
• Medication and dosing instructions
• Collars and harnesses with their tags and leashes
• Pet carriers for smaller dogs and crates for larger dogs
• Familiar bedding, toys and treats
• Pet First Aid Kit – stock it for burns, heat stroke, and lacerations. List included below.
• Non-spill Food and Water – keep in mind if your dogs are at an evacuation center, they may not be checked regularly. ACEM said that they try to go by every 15 minutes, but…. These should be accessible without opening the kennel or crate.
• Vaccination Records
• Proof of Ownership – photos and papers are great. Microchipping is foolproof.
• Soft muzzle – in case your dog gets injured. Take the time to get your dog used to the muzzle before you need it. Basket muzzles work but according to the presenting vet, you can get bitten through a basket muzzle.

Horses

Store the following in your horse trailer or have it at hand.

•  Feed for 7-10 days
•  Medication and dosing instructions
• Non-nylon halter and lead rope (the nylon ones melt)
• Pet First Aid Kit – stock it for burns, heat stroke, and lacerations
• Feed buckets
• Wire cutters and sharp knife
• Leg wraps and any blankets
• Vaccination Records including your brand inspection and coggins
• Proof of Ownership – photos and papers are great but we’ve all played the “Whose bay is that game.” Microchipping is foolproof.
• Cattle crayon or spray paint – use to put your phone number on the horse. Do not leave the halter on if you have to turn your horse loose.

Keep your trailer in good condition and practice loading your horse regularly.

Other animals

Ask your vet to download the “Saving the Whole Family” pdf from the AVMA website. It contains guides for everything from fish to cattle to llamas to ducks.

Packing the First Aid Kit

As you prepare your first aid kit, pack the following:

•  Cone of shame
• Silver sulfadiazine (available at vet stores) for burns
• Thermometer
• Bandage tape and scissors
• Alcohol prep pads (if they are cool to touch, they are still good)
• Latex/nonlatex gloves
• Saline solution
• Towels and wash cloths
• Tweezers and needle-nosed pliers
• Vet wrap and cotton batting
• Species-specific medications – bute for horses, etc.

The Evacuation

If your area is under evacuation, it will be at one of three levels. Your levels may have different names. The level will be declared as appropriate and not work through the steps.

Level 1: Get Ready

There is a situation that may require evacuation. Be alert.

Level 2: Get Set (Pre-evacuation)

Pre-evacuations are ordered if you may be expected to leave within 24 to 48 hours. Get everything ready to go, hook up your trailer, and find out the location of the proposed evacuation center. In Albany County, the primary center is the Albany County Fairgrounds. The overflow is Hanson Arena.

Level 3: Go (Mandatory evacuation)

This is a mandatory evacuation and you should leave immediately. While you can not be forced to leave, you will not get any support if you choose to stay. Have a plan in place for the entire family.

Firefighters will open gates or cut fences to allow livestock to escape. Having your phone number on your animals will help them be returned to you.

You are not permitted to return to the mandatory evacuation area until the order is lifted. 

I will be adding information on trauma care as I verify it with the vet.