Last Wednesday, May 15^th, Contra Costa Animal Services Department participated in the Golden Guardian disaster drill, which was part of a State-wide exercise.  The scenario for the Animal Shelter was based on several large earthquakes and aftershocks hitting Northern California. 

Shelter staff, volunteers and over a dozen CART (County Animal Response Team) members worked together to set up three temporary shelters for displaced pets.  The main drill shelter was set up at 4800 Imhoff Place in Martinez where about a dozen animals were temporarily housed.   Participants practiced intake procedures, medical assessments and the process of returning pets to their owners.  Communication scenarios between the main shelter, emergency shelters and the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) at the Sheriff’s Office were handled with efficiency and zeal.  

Animal Services Humane Education Coordinator, Noell Crosse commented “Lots of lessons were learned and we are looking to implement what we learned at future drills.”   All-in-all, the day was a huge success.  It’s nice to know that, in a disaster, our pets are in good hands!