September is National Preparedness Month and the Humane Society of Ventura County has certainly taken this to heart. The HSVC has a long history of providing shelter for the animals of families evacuated from natural disasters. Every year we prepare our supplies and facilities to be ready if and when disaster strikes. Thanks to the generosity and support of those who have donated crates, we are more than prepared for this year’s fire season. The excess supplies will be sold off on a first-come-first-serve basis for anybody who would like to join the HSVC in being ready. The first step in being prepared for an emergency is to create a disaster preparedness plan for you and your pets. Your ‘go bag’ should include a way to transport and house your pet temporarily.

We have plastic and metal crates, dog ramps, dog houses, leashes, birdcages, and round pens available for purchase. Please stop by the HSVC this week, Monday, Sept. 14 through Friday, Sept. 18 during business hours to pick out what you need and make an offer. The funds generated from the sale of the 100 or so crates and other items will go towards our general operating expenses, which fund our disaster relief services. The HSVC is located at 402 Bryant Street, Ojai, CA, 93023. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we ask that you call in advance at 805-646-6505 before stopping by the shelter. We have staff on the premises answering the phones from 10 am – 5 pm. The HSVC is following public safety protocols to protect our staff and the public. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing when arriving on our campus.