When Hurricane Katrina battered New Orleans and the Gulf Coast in 2005, images of abandoned pets highlighted critical oversights in disaster preparedness. The disaster separated an estimated 250,000 pets from their families, with approximately 150,000 unable to survive in the aftermath. This disaster was a catalyst for change and inspired AKC Reunite to develop an emergency trailer designed to provide shelter for pets in times of crisis.
From tragedy to victory
On February 27, Newton, Iowa, became the recipient of the 110th pet disaster relief trailer donated by AKC Reunite, and the first in the state. The trailer is equipped to service Poweshiek and Jasper counties on a regular basis and can be deployed to any of Iowa's 99 counties in the event of a disaster. AKC Reunite President and CEO Tom Sharpe emphasized the importance of this donation, especially given the severe weather challenges faced by Iowa in the past year. The trailer is loaded with items needed to create temporary homes for at least 65 pets for 72 hours after a disaster is declared.
community collaboration
The pet disaster relief trailer donation was made possible through a partnership between AKC Reunite, Central Iowa Kennel Club, Poweshiek County Alliance, and Grinnell College. Christina DeLisi, president of the Central Iowa Kennel Club, emphasized the importance of this partnership, saying the trailer will be a vital resource in keeping pets safe and reuniting them with their owners in emergencies. He said it would be. Poweshiek County Emergency Management Coordinator Brian Paul and Jasper County Emergency Management EMA Director Jamie Robinson both expressed enthusiasm for the increased resiliency and capacity this trailer will bring to the community.
A resilient community for all members
The AKC Reunite Pet Disaster Relief trailer is more than just a response to past tragedies. This is a proactive measure to ensure that pets, which are family members, are not left behind in the event of a disaster. Equipped with a crate, carrier, universal microchip scanner, and other essentials, this trailer is a major step forward in comprehensive disaster preparedness. By addressing the needs of pets, Iowa is setting a precedent for other states to follow, strengthening the bond between pets and their owners in the face of adversity.
The introduction of the AKC Reunite Pet Disaster Relief trailer in Iowa is a testament to the lessons learned from past disasters like Hurricane Katrina. It embodies a spirit of resilience and preparedness, ensuring communities have the resources to protect all members, including pets, in times of crisis. This initiative not only strengthens the state's disaster response capacity, but also emphasizes the importance of compassion and foresight in building a safer future for all.
