Jennifer O’Connor
As someone who has suffered serious burns and still bears the scars, I can tell you that the physical pain paled in comparison to the mental anguish of watching my dog suffer the same fate.
Reading about the animals who were wounded, separated from their guardians or killed as wildfires engulfed Southern California communities, I understood full well their fear and agony. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, which is why I urge everyone to make a plan now to ensure their animals are safe in fires and other emergencies.
Our injuries didn’t come by way of a wildfire, but a freak accident. Our area was full of dogs who were chained outside 24/7, and I took my rescued dog, Taz, on daily walks to check on them and give them affection and treats. But on one such trip, an unlicensed truck hauling roofing tar jackknifed and spilled the scalding load right on top of us.
We were both rushed to our respective hospitals. Recovery for each of us was long and arduous, but miraculously, we survived. Although no one could have foreseen the accident, it made me determined to protect my family from preventable tragedies. That meant being prepared for house fires, natural disasters and other emergencies.
In addition to purchasing fire extinguishers and making an escape plan, we developed a buddy system with our neighbors, swapping phone numbers, entry codes and spare keys with people we trust in case something goes awry when we’re not home.
In the midst of California’s devastation, it is uplifting to hear about acts of compassion. Neighbors frantically called those who were away to get their entry codes or smashed windows to reach dogs trapped inside. Guardians trekked through burning mountains to lead horses to safety. Volunteers with trailers helped move sheep, cows, pigs and chickens. These stories reflect the best of humanity and serve as a reminder that our animals depend on us to ensure their safety.
Domesticated animals cannot survive natural disasters on “instinct” or fend for themselves and can’t be left behind. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, during which nearly half of the New Orleans residents who resisted evacuating did so largely because emergency shelters would not accept their animal family members, Congress passed the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act. It directs the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that state and local emergency management plans include provisions for companion animals. Since its passage, more than 30 states have passed similar laws or developed inclusive plans.
Making a list ahead of time of places you can evacuate with your animals is key, particularly for larger animals who need a lot of space. Emergency management offices and humane societies can often provide information on evacuation response teams and animal-friendly shelters. PetFriendlyTravel.com also offers a state-by-state list of evacuation centers. Campgrounds typically welcome many animals, and hotels may lift their prohibitions during natural disasters.
Emergency shelters often require proof of animals’ registration and current vaccinations. They also ask that guardians bring everything that their companions will need: food, water, medications, bowls, a harness and leash or carrier, sanitation needs and appropriate cages for small animals. It’s also comforting to bring a favorite toy or blanket. Having a “go bag” ready and packed with these essentials can save precious time when disaster strikes. And during an emergency, it’s even more critical for animals to be microchipped and wearing current identification tags.
We all have a responsibility to look out for animals who have been abandoned or are lost or injured, just as so many Californians did. If you see animals left behind in an emergency, get them to a shelter or evacuation center. If you absolutely can’t, note their location and call authorities immediately. And please, if you see animals who are chained or penned, stay with them until police or animal control officers arrive. Don’t leave them trapped with no means of escape. You may be their only hope.
Jennifer O’Connor is a senior writer for the PETA Foundation, 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510; www.PETA.org.
