Pets Prepared for the Next Disaster

Nov. 7, 2005 issue - For animal lovers, the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina was compounded by poignant scenes of abandoned pets. Boston veterinarian Amy Schroff and her colleagues have been offering classes at the Veterinary and Emergency Preparedness Center of New England in suburban Waltham since 1997. In the wake of Katrina, attendance at the free monthly sessions has grown exponentially. Schroff provides owners with strategies to rescue and care for their pets during a whole range of disaster scenarios—from blizzards, fires and hurricanes to Armageddon. "Readiness is the best medicine," she says. "If the dam breaks, you want to be able to leave immediately with your pet."

She instructs owners to always have at the ready first-aid kits and pet medications, as well as a supply of at least three days' worth of food. Owners should have leashes or carriers for their animals, and should carry a picture of each pet in case of separation. Students are taught how to check pets for vital signs, and how to transport injured pets safely. Schroff says it's a mistake for owners to leave their pets behind. Such a decision can compound the emotional distress, particularly for children. "People just don't know what else to do," she says. But with a little training, they can find out.

—Jessica Silver-Greenberg
© 2005 Newsweek, Inc.