Natural Disasters and Pets: Being Prepared When Crisis Strikes

Animal Chronicles

January 19, 2025

By Joe Lisella

Natural Disasters and Pets: Being Prepared When Crisis Strikes

As devastating wildfires rage through the Los Angeles region, the heartbreaking stories of suffering among both people and their pets serve as a stark reminder of nature’s destructive power. Having spent 15 years in California before moving to the Capital Region, I gained valuable insights about how animal welfare organizations operate during disasters and the importance of preparedness for pet owners that I’d like to share. In our region we are not immune to natural disasters including wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and more so emergency preparedness is crucial to protect your pets.

The animal welfare industry has evolved significantly in its disaster response capabilities. Within hours of a crisis, shelter and rescue groups outside affected areas typically transport adoptable animals to their facilities. This strategic relocation enables local shelters to focus on animals discovered during and after the disaster, while also providing temporary boarding for pets whose families have been displaced.

In disaster zones, shelter staff and volunteers work grueling hours, not only managing their facilities but also supporting pets housed in human evacuation centers. Beyond routine shelter care, they must treat numerous animals suffering from burns and other disaster-related injuries. Even after the immediate crisis subsides, shelters face the challenging task of caring for unclaimed animals or those surrendered by families who have lost their homes and can no longer care for them. The long-term recovery process often proves more demanding that the initial emergency response.

How can you prepare your pets for natural disasters?

To protect your pets during a disaster, consider these essential steps:

Ensure Proper Identification:

·        Get your pet microchipped and maintain current registration

·        Provide a collar with your contact information, including cell phone number

·        Keep recent photos of your pet, preferably including yourself, for identification purposes

Maintain Healthcare Requirements:

·        Keep vaccinations current, as most emergency boarding facilities require core vaccinations

·        Always make sure to have at least a week’s supply of medications available

Take Immediate Action:

·        Bring outdoor pets inside as soon as you're aware of approaching danger

·        Block access to potential hiding spots where frightened cats might seek shelter

·        Research and bookmark pet-friendly hotels in your region, booking early if evacuation becomes necessary

Prepare Essential Equipment:

·        Secure a properly sized carrier or crate that allows your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, considering they           may need to spend extended periods inside

Prepare a Go Kit that includes:

-         Leash and/or harness

-         Muzzle (if needed)

-         Seven-day supply of food and water

-         Written instructions for feeding, medications, and other needs

-         Can opener for canned food

-         Litter box and litter for cats

-         Comfort items (favorite toys, treats, bed)

-         First aid kit

For those wishing to support current relief efforts in California, consider donating to Pasadena Humane or the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation. Both organizations are doing amazing work leading the emergency response and an online donation will enable them to meet the extraordinary expenses associated with caring for these pets.

Joe Lisella is the executive director of the Animal Protective Foundation.

APF contributes Animal Chronicles articles and welcomes animal-related questions and stories about the people and animals in our community. Visit animalprotective.org, follow us on social media @AnimalProtectiveFoundation or email chronicles@animalprotective.org.