Latest news with #PETSAct

Miami Herald

Hurricane evacuation plans must include pets Floridians won't leave behind

With hurricane season upon us, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is in limbo. The White House has been critical of the agency's effectiveness, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently reiterating that President Donald Trump believes the disaster relief body has 'failed.' Predictably, the proposal to shift funding from Uncle Sam to state and local agencies has sparked controversy — including from Congress. But regardless of how the country's disaster response apparatus is reorganized, saving lives must remain the North Star. That includes helping both humans and animals caught in the eye of the storm. Cats and dogs haven't always been part of government efforts responding to — or preparing for — natural disasters, despite many Americans treating pets as family members. It's estimated that thousands of pets were lost, abandoned or killed in the wake of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which devastated parts of South Florida. More than 100,000 pets were left behind in New Orleans as Hurricane Katrina barreled down on the city 13 years later. But in 2006, born out of those Gulf Coast tragedies, the federal government took action. Bipartisan legislation was passed by Congress requiring states seeking federal disaster aid to accommodate pets and service animals in their evacuation plans. That includes providing animal-friendly emergency housing. The law — called the PETS Act — also empowers FEMA to directly rescue, care for, and shelter animals impacted by natural disasters. Bringing animals into the fold of the nation's disaster response framework was a major step toward improving animal welfare. Today, it's also credited with saving human lives. A survey by PetSmart Charities reveals that more than 70% of pet owners would ignore an evacuation order if their furry family member couldn't come along. And 80% said they would give up their spot at an emergency shelter if pets were not allowed. Translation: Americans are now more likely to follow safety protocols and evacuate danger zones when their pets are part of the plan. Building on that legacy, we — as Florida residents and American animal lovers — can do more. Our elected officials in Washington could amend the PETS Act to expand options for animal-inclusive housing following natural disasters. For example, the government could offer financial incentives to hotels and motels that temporarily accept guests with pets. State legislatures could pursue similar policies in tandem. Meanwhile, pet owners themselves can take preemptive steps to improve pet safety during hurricanes. Preparing a pet disaster kit ahead of time is essential. That kit should include a two-week supply of food, water and medications, along with a leash, bedding and comfort items like toys. Veterinary records, current photos, and microchip information should be stored in a watertight container to aid in reunification if a pet is separated during the chaos. Details about the future of FEMA remain uncertain. But with hurricane season already here, the White House and Congress must come together to create a robust and inclusive disaster response framework. The lives of Americans — both human and animal — depend on it. Robin Ganzert is the president and CEO of the American Humane Society.