DISASTER PLANNING FOR HORSE OWNERS

DISASTER PLANNING FOR HORSE OWNERS

Ventura County California Animal Regulation Checklist You can call Animal Regulation at 805-388-4341 with any further questions or to request assistance in evacuating animals in times of crisis. We will dispatch local volunteers with equipment and experience in the evacuation of large animals.

Before

Keep debris clear of barns and from under trees. Debris can include manure and bedding that you may have used for mulch. Proper trimming and pruning of trees can make a difference. Do not let branches touch or hang over buildings

Keep fire-fighting equipment and supplies in working order. Make sure fire extinguishers are in each dwelling and outbuilding, and are fully charged. Extinguishers should be checked every 12 months for proper charge.

Inspect all electrical systems every three months for the following:

Service boxes should be kept dry and dust free. They should be mounted at least five feet off the ground on fire-resistant materials;
Electrical fixtures should be free of dust, dirt, cobwebs, hay, and other combustible materials;
Never use an extension cord as an electrical line on a permanent basis. Additional lines should be installed by a licensed electrician and conform to local and/or state electrical codes.
Water mains, pipes and/or contamination of water could occur. Have an emergency supply plan, enough water for 72 hours: 5 gallons per each horse, 1 gallon per person. Advance notice for hurricane and floods allows you to prepare. Keep large, 60-gallon containers for storage of water. Fill them up with fresh water during warnings and keep in a secure place. Have water purification tablets on hand.

Keep a closet stocked with supplies for your family. Supplies should include flashlights, batteries, toiletries, paper plates, napkins, wipes, plastic utensils, and food supply for one week. Consider mainly canned goods that do not require cooking, Gatorade or bottled juices. Rotate goods every six months, or as needed.

Fire is the largest cause of loss for horse farms. Arrange a fire inspection by your local fire department. Most fire departments would be pleased to come out to your farm before a fire occurs. Suggestions they make will result in a safer farm and may justify a reduction in your insurance premiums.

PLAN AHEAD. Determine the best place for animal confinement in case of a disaster. Find alternate water sources in case power is lost and pumps are not working or have a hand pump installed. You should have a minimum of three days feed and water on hand. A change in normal feed cycle and material can make your horse sick, particularly in stressful situations. That is why it is important to keep an adequate supply of feed on hand for emergencies. Keep at least 72 hours' worth.

During a disaster, it is not unusual for horses to be unwilling to leave their stalls or corrals. If fire or smoke is a danger to them, they must be led out and placed in a secured area. Be able to lead your horses out to a paddock during a fire emergency. Stay as calm as possible. Place them as far away from the fire as possible. Plan out an emergency evacuation and practice it. TRAIN YOUR ANIMALS TO LOAD IN A TRAILER SAFELY AND QUICKLY.

Emergencies do occur at night. Do practice an evacuation drill at night with your horses. Use flashlights so your horses will become used to them. Remain calm as horses will react to panic and fear. Practice moving your horse to a safe area, simulating a fire drill.

HALTERS. Keep a halter available at easy access for each horse on the property, preferably tied to the rail or gate of their corral. DO NOT PUT LOCKS ON CORRALS! Fire personnel or volunteers will not be able to help your animal if the stall is locked and you are not nearby.

EVACUATION. Decide where to take your horses if evacuation is necessary. Contact fairgrounds, equestrian centers, and private farms/stables about their policies and ability to take horses temporarily in an emergency. Have several sites in mind. Familiarize yourself with several evacuation routes to your destination.

IDENTIFICATION. This is critical! Photograph, identify, and inventory your horses. Permanent identification such as tattoos, brands, etched hooves or microchips are best. Temporary identification, such as tags on halters, neck bands, and duct tape with permanent writing will also work. Include your name and phone number. Keep identification information with you to verify ownership. (Breed registration papers may already have this information).

MEDICAL RECORDS AND VACCINATIONS. Your horses need to have current vaccinations. Keep medical histories and record special dosing instructions, allergies, and dietary requirements. Write down contact information for your veterinarian.

VEHICLES. Keep trailers and vans well-maintained, full of gas, and ready to move at all times. Be sure your animals will load. If you don't have your own vehicles, make arrangements with local companies or neighbors before disaster strikes.

SAFETY. Use caution when approaching frightened or injured animals. NEVER work alone! Always have one or more partners.

Disaster Preparedness Kit

	Your veterinarian's information
	Portable radio and extra batteries
	Plastic trash barrel with a lid
	Water buckets
	Feed for 3 days (minimum)
	Non-nylon leads, halters, and shanks
	Leg wraps
	Horse blanket or sheet
	First Aid items
	Tarps
	Portable generators
	Flashlights
	Shovel
	Lime or bleach
	Fly spray
	Wire cutters
	Sharp knife
	Hoof Pick
	A current photograph of horse(s)

During

Listen to the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on the TV or radio. (our area tune to KHAY 100.7 FM or KVTA 1520 AM)
Evacuate your horses early, if possible, to ensure their safety and ease your stress.
Take all vaccination and medical records, the Emergency disaster kit, and enough hay and water for three days.

Call your destination to make sure the site is still available.

Use roads not in use for human evacuation when you transport your horses to the sheltering site.

If you must leave your animals, leave them in the pre-selected area appropriate for disaster type. Leave enough hay for 48 to 72 hours. Do not rely on automatic watering systems. Power may be lost.

After

Check fences to be sure they are intact. Check pastures and fences for sharp objects that could injure horses. Be aware of downed power lines, fallen trees, and debris. Familiar scents and landmarks may have changed, and animals can easily become confused and lost.

If you find someone else's animal, isolate it from your animals until it is returned to its owner or can be examined by a veterinarian. Always use caution when approaching and handling strange or frightened horses.

If you've lost an animal, contact veterinarians, humane societies, stables, surrounding farms, and other facilities. Listen to the EAS for groups that may be accepting lost animals. (Ventura County call Animal Regulation at 805-388-4341)

Check with your veterinarian for information about possible disease outbreaks.