National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day – Protecting Wildlife and Pets in Times of Crisis
- Admin
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Every year, National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day reminds us of the importance of planning ahead to keep animals safe during emergencies. While much focus is often on pets and livestock, wildlife also faces immense challenges during natural disasters like floods, wildfires, and hurricanes. Understanding how to respond if you encounter wildlife in distress can make a critical difference in their survival. But just as we plan for the safety of wildlife, we must also take proactive steps to ensure the well-being of our beloved pets.
Preparing for Your Pets During Disasters
Pets depend on us for their safety and comfort, and disasters can leave them vulnerable in ways we might not anticipate. Here's how you can ensure their safety during an emergency:
Create an Emergency Kit for Your Pets
Just like you prepare an emergency kit for yourself, your pets need one too. Include essentials like:
Extra food and water for at least three days
A leash and collar with an ID tag
Medications and any necessary prescriptions
A pet first aid kit
Copies of medical records and vaccination history
Comfort items (blankets, toys) to ease stress
A crate or carrier for easy transport
Plan for Evacuation
Know where your pets will go if you need to evacuate. Not all shelters accept pets, so research pet-friendly shelters in your area ahead of time. Make sure your pet’s ID is up-to-date with a microchip or collar tag.
Establish a Safe Space
During a disaster, pets may experience anxiety due to loud noises or unfamiliar surroundings. Create a designated safe area in your home where they can stay calm, away from windows or other hazards.
Keep Them on a Leash or in a Carrier
If you have to evacuate, always keep your pets secure in a carrier or on a leash. This ensures they are safe and prevents them from running away or becoming lost in the chaos.
Know How to Comfort Your Pet
Keep calm in front of your pet to help them remain calm. Animals are highly attuned to their owners’ emotions, so staying composed can help reduce their stress.
Update Your Emergency Plan
Regularly update your disaster plan to include any new pets, changes in their health, or new evacuation routes. Practice the plan so everyone in the household knows what to do during an emergency.
Know your plan, practice with your family and your pets, and be prepared!
How to Prepare for Wildlife Emergencies
Know Your Local Wildlife
Understanding which species live in your area can help you recognize when something is amiss. Keep a field guide handy or use a reliable app.
Keep Supplies Ready
Stock a basic emergency kit with gloves, a flashlight, a blanket, and a box or carrier for transporting small animals if needed.
Create a Community Network
Partner with neighbors, local wildlife organizations, and emergency responders to create a plan for helping animals in your area.
Support Conservation Efforts
By protecting natural habitats and supporting organizations that care for wildlife, you can contribute to long-term disaster resilience for animals.
The Impact of Disasters on Wildlife and Pets
Natural disasters can displace animals from their habitats, leaving them injured, hungry, or vulnerable. Birds may lose their nests, small mammals might be washed away by floods, and larger species could suffer burns or injuries from wildfires. Similarly, pets—whether they’re dogs, cats, birds, or reptiles—may become separated from their families, suffer injuries, or face extreme weather conditions.
During such times, human intervention—when done thoughtfully—can help both wildlife and pets recover and thrive again. Being prepared for these events can make all the difference in ensuring their safety.
What to Do if You Find Wildlife in Need of Assistance
Observe Before Acting
If you come across an animal that seems injured or in distress, watch from a safe distance. Not all animals that appear to be in trouble need help. For instance, a young deer alone may simply be waiting for its mother to return.
Avoid Direct Contact
Wildlife can carry diseases or parasites harmful to humans and pets. Use gloves or a barrier if handling is absolutely necessary. Remember, your safety comes first.
Contact Professionals
Reach out to local wildlife rescue organizations, animal control, or park services. They are equipped to assess the situation and provide appropriate care. Keep their numbers saved as part of your disaster preparedness plan.
Provide Temporary Shelter or Relief
If immediate aid is needed, such as moving an animal away from danger, gently place it in a secure, ventilated container until help arrives. For birds, small mammals, or reptiles, ensure the container is dark and quiet to reduce stress.
Do Not Feed the Animal
Feeding wildlife can cause more harm than good. They often require specific diets and may be unable to digest unfamiliar foods. Let professionals handle this aspect of care.
For more detailed information on how you can help wildlife by species, please check out our blog series: Help I found a _____!
A Shared Responsibility
While it’s heartwarming to lend a hand to an animal in need, always prioritize professional intervention. Misguided assistance can sometimes worsen the situation. On this National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day, let’s pledge to be informed, prepared, and proactive—ensuring that wildlife, pets, and all animals have a fighting chance during life’s most challenging moments.
Remember: small actions lead to significant impacts. By staying prepared and vigilant, we can protect not just ourselves and our pets, but also the wild creatures who share this planet with us.
