Strengthening Preparedness Through Hands-On Training with Contra Costa CART

CVET was requested by Contra Costa Animal Services to facilitate at tabletop exercise for the members of the Contra Costa County Animal Response Team (CART). This half day exercise was divided into two sections. First, CART members were provided a brief orientation to the emergency response trailer and given the task of setting up a small animal shelter. CART members were placed into teams under the Incident Command System (ICS) organizational structure and got to work! The participants learned about what resources they had and some recommended best practices for intake and shelter set up. During second half of the morning, CART members were divided into teams and provided simulated field call scenarios. Participants were asked to prioritize the calls and consider what equipment they may need, biosecurity considerations, and potential need for veterinary assistance. The exercise was a great success and the CART members got to know one another and expand their knowledge and experience level!