Sacramento County Enhances Animal Safety Protocols for Emergencies

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Sacramento County has updated its animal evacuation protocols to better address the challenges faced by pets and livestock during emergencies. These changes were prompted by the significant losses during the 2023 flood, which heavily impacted local farms.

In December, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors launched the Agricultural Pass program. This program permits commercial agricultural producers to quickly return to their properties after evacuations to care for their animals, minimizing disruptions in animal management.

Additionally, on May 21, the Board approved the Sacramento County Animal Sheltering Annex. This document outlines specific guidelines and protocols to safeguard pets and livestock during evacuations, demonstrating a proactive stance in disaster management.

The development of the Annex involved multiple stakeholders, including the County Agricultural Commissioner, law enforcement, public health officials, and the Office of Emergency Services. Their collaboration highlights a community-wide effort to ensure animal safety during crises.