Companion Animals

Welfare of Animals in Disasters and Emergency Response

Animals are frequently abandoned, injured, or killed during natural disasters, and emergency planning that includes animals saves both animal and human lives.

Key Facts

Many people refused to evacuate during Hurricane Katrina because they could not take their pets
PETS Act (2006) requires US emergency plans to include companion and service animals
An estimated 600,000 animals were killed or stranded after Hurricane Katrina in 2005
Animals in shelters face significant disruption and welfare harm during emergencies
Livestock and farm animals are often excluded from emergency planning despite large numbers involved

Welfare Considerations

The welfare of animals in disasters is inseparable from human welfare — people who cannot evacuate with animals frequently refuse to leave, endangering themselves. Animals left behind experience fear, starvation, injury, and death. Emergency planning that accommodates companion animals improves both human and animal outcomes. Farm animal emergency planning remains seriously underdeveloped despite the enormous numbers of animals at risk.

What You Can Do

Create an emergency plan for your companion animals including evacuation routes and supplies
Identify pet-friendly emergency shelters in your area before disasters occur
Support legislation and funding for animal-inclusive emergency management planning
Donate to animal rescue organizations active in disaster response
Advocate for farm animal emergency planning as part of agricultural disaster preparedness