Disaster Averted: Are You Ready for the Next One?

Halley - Early Riser, Future Friend of Squirrels, Coyote Curious. photo: Jane Tobin

My dog Halley rises with the sun. It is her second worst feature. Sometimes I squeeze in a few more minutes of slumber past sunrise, but on a recent Sunday morning, her pacing and cover nudging won out. 

Honestly, I don't mind getting up early. But I do try to avoid dog outings at "coyote o'clock" - the early dawn and twilight hours when both the Recreation and Parks Department and Project Coyote warn that coyotes are most active. It was on that recent Sunday morning when my dog’s second worst feature collided with her worst one.  

Halley’s worst feature is her relentless unfulfilled dream to capture and befriend a squirrel (author's interpretation). Her high-pitched "hello squirrel!" barks, along with her harness testing lunges, are an embarrassment. My sincere apologies to the squirrels. She's a work in progress.

As it turns out, the annoying bark I assumed was only for squirrels is nothing compared to the bark she has for coyotes. That Sunday, Halley spotted the coyote first, and unlike a squirrel, the coyote didn't run away or up a tree. Instead, it cut diagonally across the park and headed straight toward us. At one point, it circled close enough for me to see its white, gnashing teeth. Then it was gone. 

Luckily, Project Coyote had joined us at the August Animal Commission meeting - prompted by requests from concerned neighbors, recent media attention, and genuine interest in the topic from the Board of Supervisors - so the information they shared was fresh in my mind. I was aware of what a coyote might do in a situation like this and how I should respond to keep us safe, but I’m telling you, the suddenness and ferocity left me shaking. 

My dog was on a leash. I yelled loudly. I never turned my back on the coyote, nor did I run away. I know Halley’s barking provoked the coyote, but I also know the outcome could have been very different if I was unprepared or if my dog had been unleashed. On behalf of all of us with companion animals and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, I offer heartfelt thanks to the nonprofits and advocacy groups who regularly join our meetings to educate us on the importance of preparedness in co-existing with our urban wildlife.

Speaking of Preparedness

Bay Area residents’ awareness of the need to be prepared for a disaster is growing, but a refresher is always welcome. In October, the commission invited Dr. Shari O'Neill, a veterinarian with San Francisco Animal Care & Control, whose pet passion (ahem) is disaster and emergency preparedness. As most residents know, the Bay Area is a vulnerable geographic region, susceptible to fires, earthquakes, and floods. Adding a pandemic to the mix only underscores the need for us to be prepared in an emergency. And because our preparedness allows first responders to deal with more urgent calls, it’s the least we can do for ourselves and our community.

Here’s how to make sure you and your pets are ready.

A Jeep Filled with Chocolate (Labs), October 2019, photo: Jane Tobin

Step 1: Create a Plan

Where to go?

Dr. O'Neill reminded us that a well-practiced disaster plan can reduce stress and save precious time – and possibly lives. Our family pets should be part of that plan and need to be ready to go with us in an evacuation. In 2019, this sweet pack of dogs (shown above) was grateful to find lodging after being forced to evacuate due to wildfires. Lucky for this bunch, there was room and a pet-friendly policy at the inn. So plan ahead to identify places you and your pets can stay before disaster strikes.

Form a buddy system

What if disaster hits when you’re not home? Plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to make sure someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. And be sure to have at least one emergency contact outside the area. 

Have your records ready

Your emergency go-bag should include medical information, vaccine status, your pet's microchip number, and your current address and phone number. Recent photos of you with your pet are also helpful in case you become separated.

Step 2: Ready Up with Emergency Supply Kits

Just as you do with your family's emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for your pet’s survival, such as food and water. Have two kits:  a larger one if you are sheltering in place and a lightweight version if you need to evacuate.  Consider including some of these preparedness items on your holiday wish list or gift them to others with pets. 

Step 3: Stay Informed

Disasters and emergencies can shift at lightning speed so keep up to date as information changes. Download the FEMA app and local alerts apps. Or view Dr. O’Neill’s full presentation here for more tips. Remember, your pets are counting on you to keep them safe no matter what the world throws at us.

Fortunately for me, that recent brush with a coyote was the closest thing to an emergency I’ve had to deal with. Sure, it was scary, but I was ready. I did what the experts recommended and lived to write this Commission Tail. But you can bet I’ll include an extra leash and harness in Halley's disaster kit. 

COMING SOON:

In November, the Animal Commission will welcome Canine Grooming Academy (CGA) to share its innovative approach to creating opportunities/pathways for those experiencing employment barriers and how animals may be part of the solution. Join us on November 18 at 5:30 p.m. Please note our regular meeting date has changed due to the Veterans Day holiday.