What are the best ways to manage animal and pet resources during a disaster?

Our organization worked with a nonprofit in California during one of the wildfire years. They had trailers for horses, farm animals/livestock, fowl, etc. They wanted to go in and rescue the animals, but didn’t have a CAD system; didn’t understand ICS; didn’t know how “the system” works. We utilized our CAD system, got our IMAT remotely working with the teams on the ground; contacted every Animal Rescue & Animal Control (via PD) informing them of the animals needing rescue, our resources, their location. The nonprofit picked up animals. We developed a tagging system, using photo ID, name of owner, phone #, address, and used modified triage tags to track down the animals afterwards. AAR - recommended track sys = to humans

The initial step in managing animal and pet resources during a disaster is to identify their needs. Recognize that various animals and pets have distinct requirements for food, water, shelter, health, safety, and comfort. Additionally, consider the emotional and behavioral impacts of a disaster on these animals, as they may experience stress, anxiety, fear, or aggression. Develop a comprehensive plan to address the needs of your own animals and pets, as well as those in your community, including neighbors and local shelters.

Proper planning prior to the disaster will save the pets & for that you should adequately identify/manage their needs based on the types of pets. Different animals have different requirements/adaptability characteristics.

Have a plan! You may need two - one for flood and one for fire or extreme weather events - List it out - Write it down and finally keep it accessible (maybe with your passport ) and finally always know your plan.

Identify different animals and pets with their needs. Get organizations that specialize in animal and pets care to handle that. It gives you the chance to focus on other aspects of the DRR work.

It’s essential to have kits for pets when it comes to time of natural disasters or other calamities. Personally, we have kits for our dogs that includes animal, first aid supplies, emergency, food, water, dishes, leashes, etc. I think it’s very helpful for emergency management to have supplies on hand just in case, you need to take care of somebody’s pet.

It is essential to have a pre-planned safe room stocked with pet's essentials - food, water, medication, leashes, carriers, and sanitation supplies. To make a safe space secure furniture, and create a hideaway for anxious animals. Prioritize your safety and that of your pets, avoiding flooded areas, toxic materials, and potential hazards like downed power lines. Remember, if sheltering in place is temporary, plan for a quick evacuation route when it becomes safe. Ultimately, prioritize your survival and that of your animal companions by following official guidance and being prepared for both scenarios.

The second step in managing animal and pet resources during a disaster is to prepare animal and pet kits. These kits, akin to human emergency kits, are customized to meet the specific needs of animals and pets. Essential items include food, water, bowls, leashes, collars, tags, carriers, blankets, toys, medications, first aid supplies, and vaccination records. Additionally, maintain a list of emergency contacts, including veterinarians, animal shelters, or rescue groups. Store these kits in a secure and easily accessible location, ensuring regular updates to keep them current.

The third step in managing animal and pet resources during a disaster involves deciding whether to evacuate or shelter in place based on the situation. In the case of evacuation, bring your animals and pets with you, as leaving them behind may pose risks to their safety or hinder reunification. Plan ahead for suitable destinations, considering that not all shelters or hotels may accommodate animals. Have a backup plan in case your preferred location is unavailable or inaccessible. If sheltering in place, keep animals indoors in a secure and comfortable area with sufficient food, water, and supplies. Monitor their health and behavior, providing reassurance and stimulation as needed.

Coordination with animal and pet organization and hospital is important step. veterinary doctor will help to reduce post trauma of the pet. Pet experts help them in dealing with after shocks.

As a responder during Hurricane Katrina (and all sorts of other disasters) and volunteer with multiple animal rescues, I can not emphasize this enough- Reach out to your local animal shelters, to your local Red Cross, etc and find out what your options are in a disaster. Work out with your neighbors who has the vehicle space to take larger animals. NEVER rely on being able to shelter in place.

Including your pets in your emergency planning may require some additional effort on your part but that planning will pay dividends in the unfortunate event that you are required to put your planning in effect. Additionally, in many cases our pets provide us with as much psychological support in stressful times as we provide to them.