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This startling statistic showcased the importance of pet evacuationplanning efforts such as those deployed before Hurricane Gustav. It alsoreaffirms the strength of the human-animal bond and the importance the publicsees in the rescue of animals during times of crisis.
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The study found that nearly three out of four people surveyed (72 percent)agreed that there should be formal evacuation plans for pets. Notsurprisingly, the support for formal disaster plans for pets and companionanimals was strongest in the South (74 percent) and West (76 percent), areasmost closely associated with hurricanes and wildfires.
"During Hurricane Katrina, American Humane and others rescued nearly10,000 animals," said Marie Belew Wheatley, president and CEO of AmericanHumane. "As Gustav set its sights on Louisiana we were part of efforts thattemporarily and safely housed more than 1,000 animals for evacuating residentswho needed a place to shelter their pets. Now, with hurricane season in fullswing, it's important that the lessons and successes applied in Louisiana areapplied elsewhere."
The study surveyed 1,000 adults to gauge their attitudes and level ofpreparedness surrounding disasters. Areas of research included determiningthe public interest in formal evacuation plans for pets, policy surroundingownership of pets lost in a disaster and the steps people have taken toprepare their pets for a disaster.
Other key findings include:
Kids change everything
-- People with children were 62 percent more likely to leave their petand evacuate than those without children.
-- 60 percent of people with children would evacuate if they had to leavetheir pet behind, compared to just 37 percent of people without children.
Humans come first
-- Most respondents agreed that rescuing pets was a secondary objective,after rescuing people.
o 45 percent said animals should be rescued only after all humanshave been brought to safety.
o 34 percent said animals could be rescued along with humans "if timeand space permits."
o 16 percent said animals and humans should be considered equals andpets should be "rescued at all costs."
Loyalty of dogs is rewarded
-- 55 percent of dog owners would refuse evacuation efforts, compared to43 percent of cat owners.
-- Dog owners were 41 percent more likely than cat owners to say thatpets should be rescued at all costs when rescuers encounter them.
"These findings really demonstrate the incredible power of thehuman-animal bond and make it clear that people believe animals should beconsidered in rescue efforts," said Wheatley. "Now, we need to continue usingthis information to construct safe, fair and feasible plans for rescuesituations."
What should be in your pet evacuation plan?
Pet owners need to be prepared in case rescuers can't get to their pets.There are a few quick and easy steps to take to help you and your pet quickly,and safely, evacuate from a disaster zone.
1. Have a plan - make sure your family knows who is in charge of gettingthe pets from the house or doggie day care in the event of an emergency. Knowwhere you will try and get to and where you will meet if cell phone coverageis poor.
2. Keep your pets' vaccinations up-to-date -- discuss with your vet yourpet's vaccination schedule. If your pet is on any over-the-counter medicationsor treatment, see about having extra on hand during natural disaster season.
3. Know wh
