Shelter from the storm: How to care for pets in time of disaster
Disasters come in many forms and can strike at any time. With
over 358 million pets residing in 60 percent of American
households, it is essential that disaster plans include pets.
The paramount importance of providing for the evacuation and
sheltering of pets during a disaster was made apparent by those
affected by Hurricane Katrina. In Oct. 2006, a new federal law
was passed requiring state disaster plans to include provisions
for household animals in the event of a major disaster or
emergency, if the state is to be eligible for FEMA grants. To
facilitate the development of plans, FoA has created “Animal
Disaster Plans of U.S. States,” available online. It shows, in
easy-to-read terms, the status of state preparations, complete
with copies of all available plans. FoA also recommends that you
create an individual or family disaster plan, since the best way
to protect your pets is to be prepared. Different disasters
require different responses.