Readiness

Equine 808 Horse Rescue

HURRICANE & TSUNAMI EQUINE EVACUATION

All horse owners in Hawaii need a Plan B….just in case. So be prepared.

Head for the hills! When hurricane winds blow along the gulf and eastern shores of the United States, horse owners must decide whether to “shelter in place” or load horses, gear, and pretty much everything but the kitchen sink, and head inland, away from the greatest storm danger.

If you plan to evacuate with your horse, there are a number of web sites and contacts to help you. If at all possible, making these contacts well in advance of the emergency will make the trip much easier. Leave early in a voluntary evacuation period. If you wait too late, you may be stuck in traffic or not allowed on the road once winds reach a certain velocity. If you must make a last-minute search for shelter/stabling, consider some of the following as you make calls and prepare to move out:

· Have proof of ownership and individual identification of your horse.

· Be sure to describe your horse (stallion, mare, young unbroken, mare with foal) in terms that make special needs clear.

· Discuss fencing and stabling type—what is your horse used to living in and will he be safe in different/unusual type facility.

· If pasture/paddock with other horses, realize additional risk of injury in turning horses in with new “buddies”.

· Ask about health status: Know what vaccines/worming your horse has received in relation to the general status of horses being accepted at the stable. There is always some risk in commingling horses/livestock. Having your horse current on vaccination, especially Tetanus, EEE, WNV, Rabies and Flu/Rhino may protect in case of exposure to these diseases.

· Carry or locate source for feed and hay of type your horse is accustomed to.

· Contact Equine 808 if you need transportation to a non-flood area or to the ranch for temporary housing during a tsunami or hurricane.

· Equine 808 Horse Rescue is prepared to take in many horses during an emergency.