Every year, on May 8th, pet lovers and emergency planners nationwide observe National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day, which was established by FEMA to highlight the importance of including pets in our disaster preparedness plans. This annual reminder is more relevant than ever as natural disasters like tornadoes, hurricanes, ice storms, and floods become more frequent and severe. Our pets depend on us for their safety, and failing to plan for them in emergencies can have heartbreaking consequences for animals and entire communities. Here, I’m sharing why National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day matters. Let’s discuss!
National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day
Including pets in your emergency plan isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s the ethical and responsible thing to do. Here are the top four reasons why:
1. Protecting Animal Welfare
Our pets are family, and they rely on us completely for their safety and well-being, especially during disasters. When disaster strikes, animals left behind or unaccounted for are at risk of injury, starvation, dehydration, and death.
Planning ahead means you can evacuate safely with your pets, ensure they have access to food, water, and shelter, and reduce their suffering during already stressful events. It’s a fundamental act of compassion and responsibility for the creatures who trust us most!
2. Reducing Stress and Trauma-for Pets and People
Disasters are chaotic and stressful for everyone, including our pets. Having a clear plan in place, such as knowing where pet-friendly shelters are, keeping a pet emergency kit ready, and ensuring pets are microchipped, reduces anxiety for both you and your animals.
Being prepared before disaster strikes allows you to focus on getting your family to safety, knowing your pets are included, and helps pets remain calmer and more manageable during evacuations or sheltering in place.
3. Supporting Community Safety and Emergency Response
When pet owners leave animals behind, it often leads to dangerous rescue attempts by first responders or by the owners themselves returning to hazardous areas. This strains emergency personnel and can divert resources from other critical needs.
The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act was passed after Hurricane Katrina to address this very issue, requiring communities to include pets in their disaster planning. By preparing in advance, we help keep our communities safer and allow emergency responders to do their jobs more effectively.
4. Preventing Long-Term Community Impact
Abandoned pets can become lost or injured, or contribute to public health concerns if not properly cared for during disasters. Large numbers of displaced animals can overwhelm shelters and rescue organizations, leading to long-term challenges for communities. By including pets in your emergency plan, you help prevent these issues, support animal welfare organizations, and contribute to a more resilient community overall.
Doing the Right Thing for Pets & the Community
National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day is a call to action: review your disaster plan, assemble a pet emergency kit, and make sure your pets are part of every step. By doing so, you’re not only protecting your own beloved animals-you’re also helping your neighbors, first responders, and the entire community weather the storm, together.
The Best Care for West Houston Cats, Dogs & Other Pets
At Animal Admiration, we are passionate about our community and your pets, no matter their species. Together, we can ensure that pets in Katy, Fulshear, Cypress, and their environs are safeguarded during weather and other emergencies. If your pet is in our care during an emergency or disaster, we will work with you and your emergency contacts to ensure your pet’s safety and well-being.
Animal Admiration Pet Care offers quality dog sitting, cat sitting, and dog walking in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress. For new clients, please contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015 to learn about our in-home pet care services. Existing clients, schedule your pet care visits here.
If you are outside our above-listed areas, please visit Pet Sitters International or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters to find a professional pet care provider near you.
Brooke Rozell began her professional pet sitting career in 2003. In 2011, she established Animal Admiration to bring trusted, professional pet care to the Katy, Cypress, Fulshear, and West Houston areas while elevating the pet sitting industry as a whole. Brooke is an active member of Pet Sitters International, the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters, the Texas Pet Sitters Association, and the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more about Brooke.
