Join your local Disaster Team
Thanks to everyone that has been viewing this blog. I received the following e-mail and thought it was noteworthy.
“I think this is so important! Although, I’ve had some problems with animal evacuations. The last fire (Bell Canyon last year) I called CDF, CHP, and the local sheriffs office as well as animal control to volunteer my truck and trailer to evacuate horses from that area. None of these agencies would take down my name or number for referral. I even went into the area with my truck and trailer to help and officials wouldn’t allow me to help. I had a place to take the evacuated animals and everything!! Anyway, I’ll keep looking and trying to find a way down here… any suggestions? Thanks, janet” From Ventura County, CA I did a little research. Ventura County, CA, has the Emergency Volunteer Rescue Team (EVRT) coordinated by Ventura County Department of Animal Regulation. To participate you must be a registered member and attend regular training. The registration and training allows for more coordinated efforts and to protect the safety of rescuers and victims. Their website - http://www.vcar.us/
To find organizations in your area we suggest contacting the following groups: County Animal Services Local Sheriff Department Sheriff Posse Organizations Humane Society Local Office of Emergency Services Agriculture Extensions or Farm Bureau Offices
If you are unable to locate an organization, start one!!! Bring together members of organizations such as pony clubs, FFA, local horse organizations (dressage, polo clubs, hunter jumpers, etc.). Get large boarding facilities and farms involved. Please comment by clicking on the word “comments” at the bottom of each article. Tell us your story.