A Los Angeles Times Special Report : Coping With The Quake : Recovering From Disaster, Preparing for the Future : CARING FOR YOUR PET

Pets may become tense, anxious and panicky in an earthquake. If you have a missing pet or other animal - care problem, call Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control at (310) 940-8888. The center is staffed to direct callers to the agency best suited to help with specific problems in specific locations.

In Ventura County, call the Department of Animal Regulation at (805) 388-4341.

Following is additional advice for dealing with pets in an earthquake from Warren Eckstein, host of a pet show on KABC radio:

Question: How can you calm your dog or cat after an earthquake?

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Answer: The best thing to do is talk calmly to the animal and remain calm yourself. You should confine your pet with a leash and collar or cage because it may try to bolt out the door. Be careful if it’s not your pet because it may react aggressively after being separated from its owner.

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Q Will pets require attention or should they be left alone?

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A After a quake, touching, stroking and favorite toys have a calming effect on pets. And since a pet is a part of the family, it should go with you in case of evacuation. If the shelter doesn’t accept pets, leave the tub full of water and open a bag of food.

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Q What should you do if your pet runs away?

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A Check two to three times a day with humane organizations within a good radius of your home. Your pet’s identification tag should have your home phone number and that of a relative in a different area. The best ticket home for a dog is an up-to-date license.

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Q What are common first aid techniques for pets?

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A After a quake, a pet will often chew something out of anxiety and choke. The Heimlich maneuver works on dogs. Straddle the dog with your hands in a fist right behind the last rib and push up and forward to force air up. If your pet is injured and bleeding, apply direct pressure using a sterile article such as gauze. Seek additional medical care as needed.

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Q What supplies should pet owners keep on hand?

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A An earthquake kit for your pet should contain leashes, collars, a pet carrier in case of evacuation, a few days of food and water and a fresh supply of special medications. Keep medical records on file as well.

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Q Are there other steps that may be useful in a quake?

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A It’s good to establish a relationship with a fellow pet lover in the neighborhood so that in case you are not home, there will be someone to help your animal. Pet stores sell signs that alert firefighters and neighbors that a pet is inside your house if you are away or injured.

L.A. County Animal Care and Control

(310) 940-8888, makes referrals for county shelters and takes requests for help in moving and finding animals. If your pet is missing or you have another animal-care problem, you will be directed to the appropriate agency.