DART Seminar Focused on Readiness

Taking notes

Ernie Coronel, spcaLA’s DART Manager/Animal Protective Services Law Enforcement Division, gave an informative, insightful, and educational talk at the Zoom Room Culver City last night.

Ernie told stories to an eager crowd about the Disaster Animal Preparedness Team’s (DART) work rescuing animals after Hurricane Katrina and evacuating horses, dogs, birds, and even fish in the middle of fires all over California.

Ernie used slides, stories, humor, and handouts to give each attendee the knowledge to prepare themselves and their pets for an emergency.   One of the suggestions was to create a “Pet Disaster Kit,” in addition to one for humans.  Some items to put in the Pet Disaster Kit include:

• Copies of current vaccination records and veternarian contact information
• Current photos of your pets in case you become separated
• Collar, leash, and/or pet carrier
• Three weeks supply of food and water
• Bowls
• Treats and toys
• First aid kit

DART's Ernie and trainer Kris pose during a break

Ernie and his team are dedicated to rescuing pets of all shapes and sizes during and after dramatic natural events.  Ernie hopes that by spreading the word about preparedness, fewer people will need help for their animals in an emergency.  Each person who is prepared and spreads the word about preparedness frees the team up to help others.

To add to the special night, each attendee who donated a minimum of $20 to spcaLA received a gift bag.  All in all, just over $1000 was raised for spcaLA and DART last night.  Thank you everyone who donated to this great group of hard-working animal rescuers!