WASHINGTON - A team of trained disaster response personnel from The Humane Society of the United States helped over 80 animals affected by the flooding in Broome County, New York over the weekend. The team was deployed under the authority of the Broome County Emergency Operations Center and at the request of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. United Animal Nation also assisted with the response. 

"We don't always have a warning when disaster strikes," said Randy Covey, director of disaster services for The Humane Society of the United States. "That's why all pet owners need to be prepared. They need to know where they will go if they are forced to evacuate, and they need to have a disaster kit for their pets ready to go. Pets should never be left behind." 

A disaster supply kit for dogs should include:

• A three-day supply of food and drinking water
• Bowls for food and water
• Plastic bags for waste disposal
• Current photos and physical descriptions, including details on markings
• A collar and ID tag
• Medications, vaccination records, license and first aid supplies
• Leashes, harnesses and a sturdy carrier large enough for your dog to comfortably sleep

A disaster supply kits for cats should include:

• A three-day supply of food and drinking water, as well as bowls, cat litter and a container to be used as a litter box
• Current photos and physical descriptions
• Cats should wear a collar and ID tag
• Medications, vaccination records, license and first aid supplies
• Sturdy carrier to transport cats safely as well as blankets or towels for bedding and warmth
• Carriers should be large enough to comfortably house your cat for several days and to allow for separate areas for elimination (litter in a small litter box) and feeding

"The Broome County Emergency Operations Center is to be commended for their willingness to allow animal rescue as part of their emergency response, and for their recognition of the vital role it plays in these situations," continued Covey. "However, laws are needed in New York and nationwide to guarantee that pets will be part of federal, state and local disaster plans." 

Pending legislation in New York (S.B. 6913) would require that disaster preparedness plans incorporate the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals with an emphasis on the animals' transportation and shelter.  

Congress is also considering legislation that would address the needs of pets during disasters at the national level. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act would require local and state emergency preparedness authorities to include pets and service animals in their evacuation plans. Local and state authorities must submit these plans in order to qualify for grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The PETS Act passed the U.S. House in May and is awaiting action in the U.S. Senate. For more information go to The HSUS Disaster Center on the web at www.hsus.org/disaster. 

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with more than 9.5 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammals, animals in research, equine protection and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and field work. The nonprofit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country. On the web at  www.hsus.org.