Marion County
Disaster Preparedness
Shelters and Pets
Most shelters will not allow pet owners to take their pets with them. If citizens have a cat or dog with up to date shots and a pet carrier, Marion County has a place for them to weather the storm. Vanguard High School serves as a pet-friendly shelter during an emergency.
When staying at the pet-friendly shelter, pet owners should bring everything their pet(s) will need to stay for several days: pet cage, water, food, dishes, litter, leash, collar, toys, familiar blanket or thick towel, pet first-aid kit and medications, pet identification (county license tag), and vet records. Birds may also stay at the shelter if they remain in their own cage.
Owners may spend time with pets before and after the storm and will be responsible for their animals care during those times. During the storm, pets will be secured in one building, and owners will stay in another; Animal Control and Animal Center professionals will keep pets safe during this time.
Exotic pets or livestock will not be accepted. If you need to arrange for safe housing for exotic pets or livestock, please contact your vet or local kennels. It is important to make reservations early space will be limited in the case of an emergency.
Vanguard High School is located at 7 N.W. 28th Street, Ocala, Florida, and can be reached by calling 352-671-4900.
MCBCC | Disaster | Shelters And Pets