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Escambia County has identified a pet-friendly shelter for household dogs and cats only. During a disaster, the shelter location will be posted on the Escambia County Storm Center. The pet-friendly shelter should be a last resort –  identify other locations to shelter pets before a disaster. 

Space is limited at the pet-friendly shelter. Pet owners will be required to shelter in the Red Cross shelter adjacent to the pet-friendly shelter so they will be available to care for their pets as required. The people and pet shelters are separate facilities, but are adjacent to each other.

For the protection of people and other pets at the shelter, animals brought in without proof of current vaccinations will be vaccinated by Escambia County Shelter staff. We highly encourage making arrangements to move your pets from the shelter into other safe housing as quickly as possible. 

Owners will be issued a wristband or card that will be used to verify their ownership of their pets so that they can come visit them or care for them while they are staying at the shelter.
Pet preparedness infographic with steps to prepare pets for disasters and items needed for a pet emergency kit.
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Pet Preparedness

Many families have pets, and they are part of the family. Pets need to be ready for disasters too. Take simple steps now so they are prepared.

How to Prepare Before a Disaster

  • Not all shelters accept pets. Plan ahead for shelter options that will work for you and your pets.
  • Develop a buddy system with neighbors or friends to care for your pets if you are unable to do so.
  • Assemble an emergency kit for your pet.

What Goes in Your Pet Emergency Kit

  • Food and water for at least 3 days, bowls, and a manual can opener.
  • Medications, medical records, and a first aid kit.
  • Collar with ID tag, harness, or leash (include backups).
  • Crate or pet carrier.
  • A picture of you and your pet together.
  • Important documents such as registration and vaccination records.
  • Familiar items like favorite toys, treats, and bedding.
  • Plastic bags or litter for cleanup.

What to Do During a Disaster

  • Bring your pet inside immediately.
  • Separate dogs and cats, as anxiety may affect their behavior.
  • Feed pets moist or canned food so they need less water.
  • Have extra newspapers or supplies for sanitation.

For more information and resources, visit Ready.gov and FEMA.gov.

 Preparing to Evacuate with your Pets


Have a plan. Do not wait until the last minute to form an evacuation plan when you have the additional responsibility of planning for your pet(s).

Confirm your plan 24 hours before you will need to evacuate in the event things have changed.

Bring all pets inside the house so you will not have to search for them should you need to leave in a hurry.

Make sure all pets are wearing their collars and I.D. tags.  Be sure the I.D. tag has your cell phone number on it in the event you and your pet become separated.  

Keep all dogs securely leashed and cats in sturdy carriers during travel.  Even a usually calm pet may panic and try to escape or bite in a stressful situation.

 Service Animals

Service animals are allowed in any building accessible by the person and to the extent of federal, state or local laws. Service animals may accompany their owners in general or special needs shelters. 

 Intake Process
Upon arrival at the public shelter, a person must register at the general population shelter and must also register their pets as they are received in the pet shelter facility.

Cats and dogs will be separated as much as possible to minimize the stress of the animals.

All pets without proof of vaccinations will be vaccinated on site. 
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