Companion Animal Disaster Preparedness

Natural disasters and emergencies create welfare crises for companion animals when owners are unprepared or emergency systems exclude animals.

Key Facts

After Hurricane Katrina, over 600,000 animals were killed or left behind
People refuse to evacuate without pets, putting human lives at risk too
Emergency shelters have historically excluded animals, forcing owners to choose
Pet-friendly emergency shelter requirements have been legislated in many US states since Katrina
Simple preparation including carriers, food supply, and vet records significantly improves outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal disaster preparedness is a welfare issue with both direct and indirect dimensions. Pets left behind in disasters face drowning, starvation, injury, and death. Owners who refuse evacuation because they cannot take pets put themselves at risk. Emergency systems that exclude animals create incentives for these welfare-harmful decisions. Post-Katrina legislative changes requiring animal-inclusive emergency planning in the US have improved outcomes. Individual preparedness — including carriers, food, water, medication, and identification for all pets — is the foundation of disaster welfare protection.

What You Can Do

Create an emergency kit for each pet including food, water, medication, and carrier
Ensure all pets have current identification and microchipping before emergencies occur
Identify pet-friendly emergency shelters and hotels in advance of need
Practice loading pets into carriers so the process is calm during actual emergencies
Advocate for pet-inclusive emergency planning in your community