July 27, 2015
Today Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District reintroduced the Animal Emergency Planning Act to require entities regulated under the Animal Welfare Act to develop emergency contingency plans, using federally established standards, in order to better protect the safety and well-being of animals during natural and manmade disasters. By requiring facilities such as commercial animal dealers, exhibitors, and research facilities to develop emergency response plans and demonstrate a level of preparedness, Titus’ bipartisan bill will minimize the impact of disasters on the animals under their care.

As we move through another summer season with the looming threats of hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms, animals across the United States are at risk of injury and death because the facilities in which they are held are not equipped or prepared to care for them in the event of an emergency. Lack of preparedness can have an equally devastating effect on animals and the people who risk their lives to protect them, including local first-responders, non-governmental agencies, and private citizens. 

“Whether a catastrophic event that impacts an entire region or a fire at a local breeding facility, when disaster strikes, commercial animal facilities should be prepared to protect the animals under their care,” said Titus. “It is only fair and reasonable to require some demonstration of readiness from those who earn a living from animal-related businesses.”