Don’t be scared, be prepared. It’s an adage that rings true for a multitude of scenarios.
Regardless of where you and your companions call home, there are potential dangers to consider, and you should develop an action plan to avoid them or mitigate the consequences of disaster.
As 2026 began, this topic took on renewed relevance for our animal companions. With my deepest condolences and a heavy heart, I bring this to this year’s pet issue for my beloved community to consider: Whether natural or anthropogenic, disasters come with a hefty toll in loss, and I hope to provide some insight into strategies to help avoid as much as possible the dangers to finned, furry and feathery companions.
Fire and ICE
Let’s begin with what is most likely delaying our slumber these days. The loss of animal life in the Arcata fire on Jan. 2 was tragic, and my heart is with their families. It has been one of my greatest fears. It is practically an impossible situation for the first responders and very little could be done to avoid such a devastating outcome.
Another increasingly unpredictable situation that can leave our pets alone and vulnerable is sweeping our nation of late, and that’s the possibility of being snatched up by agents of the government.
For either, the best mitigation and only plan is communication about. Talk to your neighbors. Have an open dialogue about the animals you care for and the ones they care for. Whenever possible, update your property managers or landlords. Order a decal for windows or signage listing your pets for everyone previously mentioned, and/or first responders, in case you are not present in an emergency.
Recently, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, shelters have been advising folks to put friends or neighbors who are U.S. citizens on their pet’s tags to help them find help if separated from their people and left on a street or in a car. This increases the likelihood that pets will be reunited with their original owners upon their release. I am disgusted that this tactic is needed, but it underscores the need for community, now more than ever.
Planning extends to wildfires and the rainy seasons here on the North Coast, especially for those with livestock. It’s imperative to plan for evacuation when nature goes Wild West. The Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services’ Agricultural Access Pass Program, for which you can apply, allows livestock owners to access their animals in restricted zones to give them food, water and other care (humboldtgov.org/3162/Agricultural-Access-Pass-Program).
Knowing your routes to safety, where your safe havens are, whether your veterinarian has kennel accommodation, and whether friends, family can or cannot accept pets and which hotels will are all vital.
Have supplies ready and restock periodically. Carriers, leashes, bowls, food, litter/litterbox, water, medications, vaccination records, toys, bedding and first aid. A week’s supply is generally agreed upon and recommended by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and by most state guidelines. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Disaster Preparedness, an old roasting pan is a great makeshift litter box for an emergency kit. A great tip if you don’t want to buy another litter box for this purpose or for a dust bath for chinchillas.
For birds and reptiles, remember to consider specialized equipment, such as a heating pad or a hot water bottle. For small mammals, secure carriers, extra bedding and water bottles. Fish require a proper container, battery-powered air stones, stress conditioner and a way to monitor and adjust the water temperature.
For livestock, socialize your horses whenever possible and regularly inspect your trailers. Have a marking protocol (e.g., phone numbers, braiding tags or pre-marked halters), and know up-to-date evacuation locations for livestock, such as the Humboldt County Fairgrounds.
Tsunami drama
Community was on display last July during the tsunami advisory due to the 8.7-magnitude Kamchatka earthquake, when, here in Manila, we quickly and quietly planned to evacuate all critters of all leg counts.
During both larger local earthquakes in December of 2022 and 2024, living in Arcata and McKinleyville, respectively, the same was true. People quickly communicated whether they were good or needed assistance. Keep that momentum going while the faults are quiet — as we all know, it’s a temporary peace.
Consider a network of fairy god pet parents among local friends and neighbors. Those you can trust can have keys and instructions in an emergency. Discuss with your veterinarian whether they have a policy on saving payment information and on emergency care limits if you are unreachable by phone. Could they foster? Could you? A little bit of planning and gathering supplies goes a long way to better rest from the worries of the world and about what could happen to your creatures in any disaster scenario. Happy planning, Humboldt!
Tanya Schrum (she/her) is a registered veterinary technician with more than 30 years of experience, primarily in emergency and critical care medicine. Now retired from floor work, she creates and facilitates continuing education for veterinarians and veterinary technicians worldwide.
This article appears in 2026 Pet Photo Contest.