EUGENE, Ore. (KMTR) – Teams from various animal shelters and community organizations held a drill Saturday to practice what would happen to companion animals in the event of an emergency or disaster.
“Animals in Disaster: Fire in the South Hills” was held at South Eugene High School to make sure there is a way to reunite animals with owners after a large-scale emergency. Volunteers took on mock roles as pet owners using stuffed animals.
“We know that at Katrina part of the problem was that there was simply no plan for companion animals. People were choosing not to evacuate because they were told they couldn’t take their animals with them. Having a companion animal shelter that works in tandem with the Red Cross will hopefully alleviate that,” said Rick Hammel, program manager.
An emergency can strike at any time, so Hammel shared tips with NewsSource 16.
Make sure animals have proper identification either using a collar, microchip, ear tags or brands
- Have a method of transportation by leash, cage, carrier or kennel (those with larger animals should plan on using a trailer)
- Vet records are imperative and have a list of contacts
- Make a kit with two weeks of supplies including food, water and medications
- Have emergency items on hand like a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, maps and trash bags
