Members of the Cannon Beach Disaster Animal Response Team (DART) gathered for training on emergency pet sheltering at Cannon Beach city hall on Sunday, May 19th. Members of Cannon Beach DART were joined by members of the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), with the training led by Lisa Kaufman, a consultant in Community Emergency Planning and Behavioral Health.
The training focused on the themes of safety and security while covering the basics of emergency animal sheltering in the event of an emergency. Safe methods for volunteers working with animals and assisting owners were discussed. The objective of the training was to understand the role of an emergency disaster pet shelter and to assist pet owners with the safety and security of their pets before, during and after a disaster.
Attendees learned many useful techniques about how to handle a dog in an emergency shelter or during other difficult situations. Cats were also addressed.
The Federal Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS Act) of 2006 requires state and local emergency preparedness operational plans to take into account the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals, before, during and after a disaster. If an emergency/disaster shelter is opened, provisions must be made to provide shelter for household pets and service animals.
During a disaster, it is common for people to be reluctant to leave their homes and pets, which can put them and first responders at significant risk. It is reassuring if pet owners can evacuate with their pets while knowing that they have a safe place to go where there will be trained professionals to help them deal with their pets and manage any injuries or concerns.
The community of Cannon Beach is fortunate to have Bob Kroll, a retired veterinary neurologist, who will lead and assist DART volunteers in the event of a natural disaster. Trained volunteers are needed for all shifts during a disaster, as people and their pets could arrive at all hours of the day or night. Cannon Beach is more prepared than many other coastal communities because of the commitment of DART volunteers, in addition to the pet supplies gathered and safely cached at several sites around town.
Pets that might be brought to an emergency shelter can range from familiar household pets to exotic birds, reptiles, gerbils, hamsters and more. Owners should have a plan for their pets and be prepared to leave home with them in event of a disaster. Essential items include food, medications, proof of vaccination and medical records, a crate and leash along with collars and up-to-date ID tags. It is important to have your pet micro-chipped, as it provides the best chance for them to be reunited with you if they are lost. Two photos, one of your pet and one of you with your pet, will be valuable to prove you are their guardian if you should get separated from your pet and come to a shelter to claim them.
Having volunteers with good animal handling skills reduces stress for the owner, the pet and everyone at the shelter. However, while spending time at an emergency shelter, the routine care of a pet is typically the responsibility of the owner.
Be prepared, make a plan, and prepare a disaster kit for you and your pet. Visit the City of Cannon Beach website (under Emergency Management) for information about pet “go-kits” and how to get involved if you would like to volunteer.
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