In times of evacuations, be sure to prepare for your pets’ safety. On a side note, this puppy, Martin, is available for adoption at the county’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter, 3839 Bradshaw Road, Sacramento. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - When it comes to evacuations, the public needs to remember the five “Ps” before they leave: People and Pets, Prescriptions, Papers, Personal Needs and Priceless Items.

In some cases, Pets (and livestock) can pose a unique challenge during evacuations. Sacramento County is addressing this issue. 

In December, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors adopted an Agricultural Pass program to facilitate the coordinated re-entry of commercial agricultural producers to care for their animals. 

The Board of Supervisors has now introduced additional guidance for safeguarding evacuated animals. During its May 21 meeting, the supervisors approved the Sacramento County Animal Sheltering Annex, which outlines new protocols for protecting pets and livestock during evacuations.

The Annex’s development was driven by the necessity that arose from previous disasters in Sacramento County and aligned with new legislation. During the 2023 flood event, area farms reported more than $38 million in losses, including losses of animals that could not be evacuated. 

The Annex was a collaborative effort involving government officials and various agencies. It outlines the roles of entities such as the county agricultural commissioner, law enforcement, public health and the Office of Emergency Services​ in protecting or evacuating family pets and livestock. 

With the support of partners such as the American Red Cross in coordinating shelter spaces that can accommodate animals and the appointment of an animal coordinator for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the plan aims to ensure that necessary measures are taken to address the needs of displaced animals.