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A mini horse was evacuated and sheltered free of charge at the SPCA's temporary location at the Monterey Fairgrounds. S ince it was founded in 1905, the SPCA for Monterey County has assisted community members facing countless emergencies. If you're planning for the unexpected, start by out- fitting pets with a microchip or a collar and tags. Should you be separated from your animals during an emer- gency, this can help speed the reunion process. From there, outline your response strategies. Run household evacuation drills. Discuss family meeting points. Know what you'll reach for if you're asked to evacuate. In addition to packing an emergency kit with important documents, medicine and essential supplies for your family, keep carriers, leashes, vaccination records, collapsible water bowls and other pet-care basics at the ready. Check the SPCA website for specific suggestions for dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses and other animals. "I can speak personally to having that peace of mind. When our family had to evacuate, I knew what we were going to do with our cat, our chickens, our dog. We were able to throw into our vehicles the things that we needed," says SPCA for Monterey County Spokesperson Beth Brookhouser. If you receive evacuation orders, she adds, try to take animals with you. "Just try to get your animals in your vehicle, in any way possible, and we'll take care of the rest," says Brookhouser. "If you can't evacuate them, let the SPCA know where they are so that we can go in, if it's safe." Finally, remember that not all disasters require evac- uations. The SPCA and the Monterey County Office of Emergency Services recommend stocking the supplies necessary to stay at home, without electricity, phone communications, or assistance from emergency servic- es, for three to seven days. That includes being pre- pared to care for pets and livestock. "This year has demonstrated that no matter what, the SPCA will be here for you," says Brookhouser. "We might not be at our shelter, but thanks to our commu- nity, we will be here to help." The nonprofit shares lessons learned during disaster response campaigns at www.spcamc.org/disaster. For ani- mal evacuation or sheltering assistance during an emer- gency, call the organization at 831/373-2631 (daytime contact) or 831/264-5455 (after hours). C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 123 Photo: Courtesy of SPCA Monterey County PREPARING YOUR PETS FOR THE UNEXPECTED