Emergency Preparedness Includes Planning for Animals

When Pennsylvania residents were asked to evacuate their homes during the recent flooding, many were suddenly faced with the problem of what to do with their pets.

More than 20 teams of volunteers opened and managed 29 temporary animal shelters across the state during the height of the recent flooding, and some of those animal shelters still remain open.

“We encourage all those with domestic animals to make a plan before emergencies happen,’’ said Joel Hersh, executive director of the Pennsylvania State Animal Response Team, and “prepare your home, business or farm for an emergency before the emergency occurs.’’

Based on principals used by emergency managers, Animal Response Teams involve a coordinated effort between government, corporations and animal organizations. The goal of the organization is to have a rapid, coordinated and effective response to any emergency affecting animals, with the hope of decreasing any health or safety threat to animals or humans.

Tips for preparing your animals for a disaster are similar to ones for humans. Officials recommend that pet owners have an “emergency kit,’’ that includes a few days worth of medications, water and food, plus veterinarian records, a leash, collar, bedding and toys. Animals should have some form of permanent identification, such as a microchip, brand or tattoo. Smaller pets should have a carrier labeled with emergency contact information.

For animals, including horses and other livestock, a supply of water and feed should be set aside for emergencies as well as a plan that addresses issues of transportation and areas for confinement issues, Hersh said.

This week, Sept. 19-25, was designated as Animal Disaster Preparedness Week by the Pennsylvania Senate in an effort to raise awareness of the importance of planning for the well being of all animals in a disaster.

More than 72 percent of American households have companion animals, according to statistics, and Pennsylvania is the fifth largest agricultural state in the nation, with more than 3 million livestock animals and more than 38 million poultry.

For more information on the program visit www.pasart.us

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