Protect your pets

We've been spared most of the withering heat here in the South Bay that has plagued much of the rest of Southern California this summer.. We've been lucky to have a marine layer keeping us cool, but other parts of town have reached 112 degrees a few weeks ago.

And with two months to go until autumn, you can be sure there will be plenty of hot days ahead.

And being that this is Southern California, there's always the threat of earthquakes.

Animals are at risk during these times and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles strongly recommends pet owners prepare for emergencies by following a few simple guidelines.

"Pets depend on us for their safety, food, water and more," said President Madeline Bernstein. "... It is imperative to have a disaster plan in place to ensure all members of the family are accounted for properly and it only takes a little advance preparation."

SpcaLA suggests the following:

• Make sure there's a supply of food on hand, along with emergency provisions such as medicines and prescriptions.
• Learn pet CPR. Rescue crews may be busy elsewhere or unable to reach you.
• Keep calm around pets. They can respond to stress, which can cause animals to display aggressive behavior.
• Check pet structures and hiding places for hazardous debris.
• Post "Pet Alert" signs on doors and windows. If you can't find one at your local fire department or animal shelter, make your own.
• Make sure animals wear ID tags at all times.
• Keep pet vaccinations up to date.
• Alert local shelters immediately if your pet is missing.

For more information, call the spcaLA at 888-spcaLA-1 or visit www.spcaLA.com