September a good month to prepare pets

Fido may not pack a go-bag, and Fluffy probably isn’t checking the fire escape plan — but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be ready for an emergency. September is National Preparedness Month, and San Diego Humane Society is reminding pet owners that their four-legged family members also need disaster plans.
While San Diego is known for its sunshine and ocean breezes, it’s also a place where natural disasters can strike without warning.

Earthquakes, wildfires, and floods can put people and pets at risk — and if you’re not prepared, it could mean tragedy for the animals who depend on you most.

“Our pets can’t plan for emergencies — that’s our job,” said Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of San Diego Humane Society.

“A little preparation now can save their lives when every second counts.”

Here are some ways you can make sure your pets are ready if there’s an emergency situation and you need to move fast.

San Diego Humane Society recommends creating a kit that includes at least a two-week supply of food, water, and medications.

Don’t forget bowls, bedding, toys, veterinary contact information, vaccine records, and a sturdy crate or carrier.

Practicing ahead of time is also important. Make sure pets are comfortable entering carriers, and if you have livestock or large animals, practice loading them into trailers. That way, evacuation can happen quickly when minutes matter.

Whether it’s a wildfire evacuation or a household emergency, leaving animals behind can put them — and the rescuers who might try to save them — in danger.

“Whether facing a natural disaster — like earthquakes, wildfires, or floods — or an emergency at home, the best thing you can do is leave early and bring your animals with you,” Dr. Weitzman said.

If there’s only one thing you can do, make sure your pets have identification. Collars with up-to-date ID tags are important, but microchips are even better.

Smaller than a grain of rice, a microchip is the best tool to ensure your pet can be identified and returned to you if they are ever lost,” Dr. Weitzman said.

Preparedness isn’t just about disasters. Heat can be a silent threat, especially for pets walked during the hottest parts of the day. San Diego Humane Society advises walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening, checking asphalt with the “7-second rule” (if you can’t hold the back of your hand on it for 7 seconds, it’s too hot), and never leaving pets in parked cars.

Heat stress signs to watch for include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, vomiting, or a deep red tongue. If your pet shows these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.

Beyond emergencies, San Diego Humane Society offers ongoing support for pet owners, from behavior and training resources to free pet food, low-cost vet care, and spay/neuter services.

“By providing accessible, compassionate resources to San Diego community members, we help keep pets out of shelters and with the people who love and need them,” Dr. Weitzman said.

And don’t forget, pets have feelings too, and all animals are individuals with unique personalities and needs. Owners can help them thrive by providing mental and physical enrichment — activities that are natural to their species, like digging, chewing, chasing, and searching, in safe and appropriate ways. Regular veterinary checks and supportive care are also critical.

Dr. Weitzman also shares a personal note: “I have two incredible dogs adopted from San Diego Humane Society — Rosie and Millie. They keep my life very interesting and bring a lot of love and laughs to my home.”

Be aware that if you’re considering adopting a pet, keep in mind that dogs and cats often live 10–18 years, so adopting should never be a spur-of-the-moment decision.

For those needing to rehome a pet, San Diego Humane Society provides resources to support owners and pets. Platforms like Home To Home and Adopt a Pet help families find a new match directly in the community.