Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelter Plan

The Baldwin County Commission has officially approved the Baldwin County Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelter Plan, enhancing our community’s preparedness during emergencies. This plan ensures that residents evacuating during a disaster will have a safe, county-supported location to shelter with their domestic cats and dogs.

In partnership with the Baldwin County Animal Shelter, the Pet-Friendly Shelter will be located at the Baldwin County Coliseum, 19477 Fairground Road, Robertsdale, AL 36567. The shelter will be activated as a last-resort option during emergencies and is exclusively for domestic cats and dogs.

Shelter Guidelines:

• Pet owners must be evacuees who are staying at the shelter. Pets cannot be dropped off or left unattended under any circumstance.

• Limited to 2 pets per household (dogs or cats only)

• Pre-registration available upon arrival

• Required vaccines for entry (dogs: rabies, DAPP, Bordetella; cats: rabies, FVRCP)

• Pet owners are fully responsible for the care of their animals

• All pets must be crated, and owners must bring their own supplies (food, water, leash, litter box, etc.)

Transportation Assistance with BRATS

For pet owners who do not have access to transportation during an evacuation, the Baldwin Regional Area Transit System (BRATS) will provide transportation to the designated pet-friendly shelter.

To ensure a smooth and safe transport process, please follow these important guidelines:

• All pets must be secured in a kennel prior to boarding the bus or vehicle, unless the animal is a certified service animal.

• Pet owners must be able to lift and carry their own kennels when boarding and exiting the vehicle. BRATS drivers are not responsible for handling animals or pet carriers.

• Prepare your pet ahead of time with proper identification, supplies, and comfort items for the journey.

To Schedule a Ride:

• 📞 Call: 251-972-6817

• 📞 Alternate: 251-937-0355

We encourage residents to make transportation arrangements as early as possible to ensure timely and safe evacuation.

For full details, including required forms and checklists, download the official:

Baldwin County Pet-Friendly Shelter Operations Plan 2025

Baldwin Pet Friendly Shelter Libility Form

 

If you are a pet owner, it is important to have a disaster plan in place for your pets.

Residents who choose to evacuate with their pets during disasters can find information on Pet Care Disaster Preparedness, or if you are leaving your pet(s) at home you may acquire a FREE ASPCA PET ALERT STICKER.

View the following brochures for assistance:
FEMA Disaster Preparedness for PETS 
FEMA Disaster Preparedness for HORSES 
FEMA Disaster Preparedness for LIVESTOCK 

Houston County Farm Center
 1701 East Cottonwood Road
 Dothan, AL (Houston County)
 (Can house 400 domestic animals, 150 large animals)
 
Garrett Coliseum
 1555 Federal Drive
 Montgomery, AL (Montgomery County)
 (Can house 2,500-5,000 domestic animals, 700-900 large animals) 

The state shelters will accept "any" animals, including snakes and unvaccinated animals. The state will provide the medical equipment and testing necessary to give rabies shots and will provide medication for any animals with a communicable disease.

Owners will not be able to stay with their pets, although there will be some "limited" room elsewhere on the property for owners to stay.

For more information on Alabama Regional Emergency Animal Shelters, call ADAI at 334.240.7278.

For more information on pet preparedness during disasters, download the Baldwin County Humane Society Brochure.

Pet Friendly Hotels:
http://hotelguides.com/pet-friendly-hotels/alabama/al-pet-friendly-hotels.html

Pet Shelters are a third party suggestion. We try to keep our information as updated as possible. Baldwin County Commission cannot be held responsible nor enforce Shelters or Hotels to accept all pets\animals.

Listed below are local veterinarian clinics that will board pets during hurricanes. Most clinics require proof of vaccinations, secure carriers, collars with id's, along with an ample supply of food, bowls, medications, toys, blankets, and other comfort items. Clinics should be contacted directly for more specific instructions.