CCADT Equine.pdf
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San Diego, CA: Firestorms 2009 Photo courtesy of San Diego County Animal Services
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Powerhouse Fire 2013; Los Angeles County, CA
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR HORSES
When disaster strikes - do not leave your horses behind! Horses require extra considerations due to the size and requirements needed to transport and shelter them.  Barn fires,  hazardous material spills, and train derailments may necessitate a large-scale evacuation.

You need to be prepared by having a disaster/emergency plan in place to protect your horses either by evacuating or by sheltering-in-place.   If you are transporting your horse(s) to an evacuation site, it is important that you evacuate EARLY - don't wait until the last minute.  If multiple trips  are required to transport all of your horses, you may encounter emergency road closures that prohibit returning to your home and forcing you to leave your horses behind. 
  • Develop an evacuation plan; know different routes to take in case there is a road closure
  • Establish a network of equine transportation resources if you need additional trailers (friends, neighbors,  horse clubs, etc.)
  • Locate potential evacuation sites outside your immediate area.  (fairgrounds, racetracks, rodeo grounds, equestrian centers, stables etc).  Contact them for their policies and ability to take your horses in an emergency.
  • Listen to the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on TV or radio
  • Post your emergency contact information at your stable / barn.
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For emergencies, write your contact info on the hoof.
TRANSPORTING YOUR HORSES
IMPORTANT - make sure your horses(s) are trained to load onto a trailer!   Under stressful situations, it may be challenging and take more time to get them to loaded.    Keep vehicle or trailers well-maintained, have a full tank of gas, and have the proper size hitch and ball (if bumper pull trailer).  In addition, have a driver who is qualified to pull and back up a trailer quickly and safely.

MEDICAL RECORDS & VACCINATIONS
  • Make sure your horse is  have current vaccinations.
  • Keep medical records and dietary requirements
  • Provide contact information for your veterinarian
IDENTIFICATION
  • Photograph you and your horse(s) together 
  • Permanent identification (microchips, tattoos, brands) - very important!
  • Temporary ID if necessary:  halter tags, neck bands, use livestock markers, paint, and/or duct tape with PERMANENT writing.  Include your name and phone number. 
AFTER THE DISASTER
  • Check barn and pasture fences for damages. 
  • Look for downed power lines
  • Check pastures for sharp objects or debris that could injure your horses
  • Beware of local wildlife that may have entered your property and could present a danger to your horse 
  • If another person's horse is on your property, isolate it from your horse(s) until it can be returned to the owner.  Use caution when approaching and handling strange or frightened horses.
  • If you have a lost a horse, contact your local animal control, veterinarian, surrounding farms, humane societies, etc.
  • Check with your veterinarian about potential disease outbreaks. 
The Central CA Animal Disaster Team is a public benefit charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.  Tax ID #45-1686477.  Donations are tax-deductible.  Please consult your tax adviser as to your individual tax situation. 

MAILING ADDRESS:  5132 N. PALM AVE, PMB 113   FRESNO, CA 93704
OFFICE:  (888) 40C-CADT  (402-2238)