Animals are often an important part of people's lives. Because animals can influence a person's decision to take protective actions, it is important to understand how to manage animals in emergencies. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006 requires state and local emergency plans to address the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals. When a disaster occurs, animals may remain untended for weeks if they are not evacuated or placed in a secure facility.

Often the disaster results in substantial debris, contaminated food or water supplies, downed fences and damaged structures, with abandoned animals facing significant hazards after the event.

The video is intended to help pet and livestock owners prepare to protect their animals during emergencies. It informs owners about the key points in developing a plan to evacuate animals or to shelter them in place and how to find resources in their community to assist them. Topics also include identifying hazards that impact animals, provisions for animals to include in a family emergency kit, and information on traveling across state lines or by a commercial carrier. Animal care experts and veterinarians also explain why having a recent photo, current vaccination records, and identification including microchips are important, why decontamination may be necessary, and basic precautions to take when animals return home.

(This video includes pets in emergencies as well as farm animals and exotic species.)

Why are animal issues important in emergency planning?

• Animal issues can impact public health and safety
• Protecting animals in emergencies involves a public and private coordinated effort
• The average household is estimated to have 1.2 pets, excluding wild or exotic pets
• Treating domesticated or rescued animals may spread zoonotic diseases if personnel are not properly protected
• Decontaminating animals is difficult to manage if community plans and necessary resources are lacking