ASPCA Helps Dog Owners Prepare for Disaster

The ASPCA and Animal Rescue Foundation have teamed up to make dog owners aware of the importance of putting emergency and disaster plans in place that include their pets and service animals.

Colorado State University’s Department of Atmospheric Science predicts that this year will be an active hurricane season with at least 17 probable hurricanes. The ASPCA and ARF have developed a public service announcement featuring actor John Goodman to let families know that implementing disaster readiness plans for themselves and their dogs is crucial and saves lives.

“We hope this PSA will motivate viewers to learn more about ways they can prepare for a disaster – and make sure families, humans and pets alike, remain safe in the event of one,” says Ed Sayres, ASPCA president and CEO.

The ASPCA offers these emergency preparedness tips:

• Get a “Rescue Alert” sticker that would be visible to rescue workers and includes vital information about your dog and veterinarian.
• Arrange a place to take your dog to in the event of an evacuation. Many disaster shelters will not accept pets due to health and safety regulations so determine where you will take your pets ahead of time.
• Work out an evacuation plan and keep emergency supplies easily accessible.
• Designate a caretaker to care for your pets if you’re unable to reach home immediately.