Emergency Management
Pet Preparedness
Remember the Animals
It is important for individuals to take personal responsibility for emergency preparedness, including advanced planning for pets.
Want some easy and quick tips to keep your pets safe before, during and after an emergency or disaster? Read More>>
Preparing Your Pets for Emergencies Makes Sense. The Department of Homeland Security provides information and a brochure for those who care for pets.
Protecting Our Pets from the Animal Welfare League of Arlington.
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) urges animal owners to take measures now to protect the well being of their pets when a disaster strikes. American Red Cross disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of states' health and safety regulations and other considerations. Service animals who assist people with disabilities are the only animals allowed in Red Cross shelter.
The Animal Welfare League of Arlington has a Disaster Preparedness trailer for pets in case of emergency. Read more>>
Here are a few tips to help protect your pets in the event of a disaster.
- Before an emergency, make sure your animals are wearing collars with up to date identification.
- Identify a safe location for your pet, should you have to evacuate your home. When Arlington County opens a shelter for people, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington will open a pet shelter in the same facility.
- In the event you cannot get back to your house, arrange in advance for a trusted friend to care for your animals.
- Prepare a disaster kit and a “go bag” for your pets. Include medication and vaccination history and other medical records. An information sheet about your pets' special needs, feeding and exercise regimens for the boarding facility is also recommended.
- Pet carriers, leash, food, bowls, muzzle, plastic bags and current picture of your pets should also be included in the go bag.
Refer to this Press Release by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for more tips on helping pets during a disaster. View this pet web site for more travel tips.
American Veterinarian Medical Association
The educational materials are provided to assist veterinarians, animal owners, and others interested in the well-being of animals to prepare for animal safety in the event of a disaster. Go to web site>>
Emergency Animal Rescue Service
More tips for taking care of your pets before, during, and after a disaster or emergency. Go to web site>>
