ANIMAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESS, PET OWNERS ADVISED TO CONSTRUCT A DISASTER PLAN THAT INCLUDES HORSES, PETS AND LIVESTOCK

Due to the increasing number of natural disasters across the United States, animal owners are being advised by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and by State and local government emergency management coordinators, to design emergency disaster plans that include horses, pets and livestock. To help bring attention to animals and preparedness, Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS: http://www.uan.org ) has launched the first annual Animal Disaster Preparedness Day on May 15, 1999. Humanitarian Resource Institute's Community & Family Preparedness Campaign is working to get the message out to families and animals owners throughout the United States: http://www.humanitarian.net/prepare.html

In response to appeals by Humanitarian Resource Institute this last year, Dee Beaugez, publisher of The Horse Review (http://www.horsereview.com ) saw a need and responded by developing a model city and state level campaign in Nevada. Nevada agencies and business have joined this nationwide event to remind people that disasters pose a life-threatening danger for animals, too, and that the family cat, dog, bird, horse, or any other animal being cared for, need to be included in family disaster planning. Statements from Nevada agencies and businesses include:

Nevada Division of Emergency Management

"We have had several emergencies/disasters in Nevada where animals have been either trapped or have been evacuated from the disaster site and have had to try and find volunteers to evacuate the animals and also find places to shelter these animals," said Bob Minter, State Operations Officer for the Nevada Division of Emergency Management. "Because of these past events, our Division has come to recognize the importance of a comprehensive animal disaster plan. We are currently drafting a plan that will mobilize resources both paid and volunteer to evacuate and shelter all of Nevada’s animals during emergencies and disaster," Minter said.

Washoe County Animal Control

"It is important that animal owners realize that in a disaster there may be few, if any, resources available to assist them, " said Katie Stevens, Washoe County Animal Control. "Individuals must be prepared to take care of their own animals."

VET Coordinators

"It is important for pet owners to realize that in a disaster they must take their pets with them, but pets are not allowed in regular shelters. We will devise a plan so owners can take their pets to several safe locations where they will receive proper care and medical attention. We want to help be part of the driving force that assists owners be educated on how to be prepared for their pets in the case of a disaster," said Dr. Christine Feleciano D.V.M., Galena Veterinary Hospital.