In addition to working with emergency management agencies on local disaster preparedness plans, HSUS is expanding animal disaster education programs for volunteers and emergency management personnel. HSUS is in the process of developing courses to train individuals and community groups in areas such as animal search and rescue, emergency animal sheltering, swift-water rescue, first aid, and animal handling skills. To strengthen the network of disaster resources within a community, HSUS will promote liaisons between community organizations, veterinary staff, pet owners, and emergency management agencies to provide crucial elements of disaster preparedness such as safe areas to shelter pets and identifying sources of animal rescue equipment and personnel trained in animal rescue in the case of a potential disaster. HSUS will work with pet and animal publications and associations to educate pet owners about the elements and the importance of disaster planning and preparedness for their animals. It is important for people to understand that disasters occur more frequently than just hurricanes and earthquakes.
Disasters can strike in the form of hazardous materials spills, train derailments, and house fires.
It is our goal to provide outlets for the pet-owning public to access useful emergency planning information and partnership links so they can be better prepared to provide proper care for their pets in disaster situations. All email addressed to Vetinfo or Tiercom is answered by me, Michal Justis. I try to answer or direct it all. I will make every effort to help you find the information you need. Many times I reply to a question only to have it returned undelivered because it was poorly addressed.