When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans and the Gulf Coast in 2005, the tragedy seemed endless.
One of the many heartbreaking scenarios that occurred during and after the storm was the impact it had on family pets. News reports showed footage of people having to leave their pets behind as they evacuated. Some Katrina victims refused to leave with their furry family members because their pets didn't fit into their emergency response plans.
It is difficult to know the exact number of dogs, cats and other pets affected, but the Animal Welfare Research Institute estimates that as many as 250,000 pets have been separated from their families and approximately 150,000 have died. .
Tragedy brings positive change
But those tragedies sparked something good. AKC Reunite, an affiliate of the American Kennel Club, has developed an emergency trailer that helps local communities on a daily basis and can be deployed to disaster areas when needed.
AKC Reunite's 110th pet disaster relief trailer was donated to Newton on February 27th. This is the first donation in Iowa.
The trailer is typically used in Poweshiek and Jasper counties for activities such as reuniting lost microchipped pets with their owners.
In the event of a tornado, flood, or other disaster, the trailer can provide relief to pets in any of Iowa's 99 counties.
“Just last year, our region experienced such severe weather that the governor declared a disaster,” Tom Sharp, president and CEO of AKC Reunite, said in a news release. will be able to obtain necessary supplies in the event of a disaster.” ”
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What does a pet disaster relief trailer include?
AKC Pet Disaster Relief Trailers are equipped to create a safe haven for at least 65 pets for 72 hours after a disaster is declared.
A trailer with crates and carriers and a universal microchip scanner provides emergency shelter for the animals.
The trailer is equipped with the necessary bowls, collars, and leashes, as well as fans, lights, generators, cleaning supplies, and maintenance supplies.
Who helped make the pet trailer donation possible?
AKC Reunite, the nation's largest nonprofit microchip identification and collection service, sponsors AKC Pet Disaster Relief. We partner with AKC dog clubs and pet lovers to make trailer donations possible.
Newton's trailer was made possible by the Central Iowa Kennel Club, Poweshiek County Alliance and Grinnell College.
“Central Iowa Kennel Club is proud to partner with AKC Reunit, Poweshiek and Jasper County Emergency Management Agency, and Grinnell College to bring our first AKC Reunit Pet Disaster Relief Trailer to Iowa. ” said Central Iowa Kennel Club President Christina DeLisi. said in a news release. “Iowa regularly experiences tornadoes and other severe weather events that can destroy entire communities. This trailer is designed to help all 99 counties keep their pets safe during these emergencies. , a resource for reuniting them with their owners.”
Poweshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Brian Paul acknowledged in a news release that the trailers fill a resource gap that has existed for many years.
“We are excited that this is the first trailer of its kind in Iowa,” Paul said. “This will definitely be a valuable resource for both of our counties and we are We look forward to our partnership and the increased resilience it will create.”
Jasper County Emergency Management Agency EMA Director Jamie Robinson said the trailer will enhance the community's ability to care for their beloved animal companions during emergencies.
“Together, we are building a resilient community that extends a protective embrace to all of our members and ensures that no pet is left behind in times of crisis,” Robinson said.
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Reporter Ronna Faaborg can be reached at rlawless@gannett.com.
