Lessons Learned from Hurricane Katrina
The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 left thousands of dogs and cats to wander the streets of New Orleans, hungry and alone. Many families evacuated wtihout their pets because emergency shelters would not allow them to bring their dog or cat. Told they would be able to return in a day or two, they didn't know that their pets would starve or suffer until the storm abated. Trained personnel found many pets in crates or locked in bathrooms, waiting to be rescued. Days later, many died.
Animal Response Teams Expanded
Much was learned from this disaster about human and animal needs in an evacuation. County animal response teams developed around the country, inspired by the loss of life in Katrina. In New Jersey, fo example, the Camden County Animal Response Team (CART) was developed under the auspices of the Camden County Office of Emergency Management in 2006. CART was honored by the Animal Welfare Federation of New Jersey as Hero to Animals in 2007 for developing a model team. Notably, CART members participate in Citizen Emergency Response Training (CERT) so that they can safely accompany professional first responders in a true emergency. CART continues to recruit and train new volunteers and educate its county residents through its own community events and county publicity. Similar entities throughout the 50 states can be found through a simple Google search for "animal response team".
Government Handles Emergencies
It's paramount that the public understand that emergencies are managed by government entities that are first responding to human needs. For pet owners, it's crucial to remember these initial steps, as recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Administration, before a hurricane or other event:
- Identify shelter that will accept pets and plan ahead. Find motels and other sites where you can bring your animals.
- Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they're not available later.
- Make sure identification tags are up to date and securely fastened to your pet's collar.
- Make sure you have a secure pet carrier, leash or harness
Free-of-charge, pet owners can order a copy of the DVD, Animals in Emergencies, from FEMA, to learn more about the safety of companion animals and livestock in a disaster. A pet kit is available from FEMA to help families plan ahead. Getting children involved in rescue preparation is vital because families need to get ready together. Resources for children are also listed on the FEMA site.
Nonprofits Helping People and Pets
Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is among national animal welfare organizations involved in disaster planning and relief for animals. It is probably the most structured effort of its type, based in Washington, D.C. and anchored at seven sites throughout the country. United Animal Nations also trains civilians in rescue and evacuation at trainings offered throughout the country. HSUS and other nonprofits cooperate with government leadership on disasters.
Preparation and Practice Drills
Emergencies do not always result in evacuation but public resources may be cut off. To be ready in your home, have 3 days water for you and your animals set aside. The public drinking water may not be available in an emergency and public emergency personnel may not arrive for 72 hours. Sufficient pet food should also be stocked ahead of time, along with medications, if necessary.
Get a timer! How fast can you pack up your pets? It may take longer than you realize to crate 3 cats and leash 2 dogs, for example. Take practice runs with your animals and time how long it takes to get out of your house and into your car. With repeated drills, you will be experienced at evacuation and your animals accustomed to the practice, too.
Remember that your county emergency response team may not be deployed to your area right away. By getting ready now, families can avoid having an an emergency become a greater disaster for them and their animals.
Gail Cammero Reilly - Gail Cammero Reilly has over 25 years of experience writing for and about nonprofits. Gail, who holds a Bachelors Degree in Political ...
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