Including Pets in Disaster Response and Emergency Management
With wildfires, floods and other natural disasters remaining an ongoing risk, Colorado counties have led the way in developing innovative solutions for emergency management. But, sometimes even the most robust emergency plans leave out an important member of our communities – our pets. County commissioners and administrators play a critical role in ensuring that pet owners in their community have the tools needed to protect their furry family members in an emergency.
A national survey showed that more than 90 percent of pet owners said they would bring their pet with them during an emergency evacuation, yet only 46 percent reported having a disaster preparedness plan in place and only 16 percent have emergency housing secured. From sharing information on disaster preparedness for pet owners, to creating co-sheltering opportunities, to incorporating humane societies and animal control agencies in emergency communications and coordination, county officials can implement policies that increase the safety and effectiveness of an emergency response for people and their pets.
One simple step County Commissioners can take to protect pets in their community is share the ASPCA’s disaster preparedness checklist with their constituents. This checklist is a way for pet owners to make sure they have a comprehensive plan in place for every member of their family if, or when, disaster strikes.
The ASPCA works to provide resources and support for counties and other agencies to help enhance their disaster planning and response for animals. If you are interested in learning more about how counties in Colorado and across the nation are incorporating pets in their disaster plans, please reach out to the ASPCA’s Colorado legislative director, Ali Mickelson, at ali.mickelson@aspca.org.
