Portland Area Animal Shelters Acquire Vital Disaster Response Equipment

For Immediate Release: Friday, April 18, 2014

The recent small earthquake in Sherwood reminded Oregonians that disasters can happen at any time. Last week, animal rescuers in the Portland area obtained a valuable tool to help in case of disaster. Four large animal transport trailers were purchased to use in emergency response situations. Funding came from $45,523 in combined Urban Area Security Initiative federal grants, which are administered by the Regional Disaster Preparedness Organization (RPDO).

The trailers are staged at strategic locations throughout the Portland metropolitan region and are available for any animal emergency that may occur. Now animal responders across the five metro counties (Clark, Clackamas, Multnomah, Columbia and Washington) will be equipped to assist with livestock or large volumes of domesticated pets by sharing these and other animal-related rescue and evacuation resources.

“We know that people will stay behind in dangerous situations if their pets can’t come with them,” says Randy Covey, Washington County Animal Services field supervisor. “People have put their own lives at risk or even died because they wanted to stay with their animals. This was especially true during Hurricane Katrina because sadly, there was no plan for evacuation of animals at that time.” Covey represents the Animal Multi-Agency Coordination Group at the RDPO, which includes area law enforcement, fire and rescue, public works, public health and other emergency responders.

“We also urge citizens to take steps on their own to be ready to either evacuate with their pets or shelter in place," reminds Covey. Tips on preparing for emergencies, including a list of suggested supplies to have on hand, can be found at
http://www.co.washington.or.us/HHS/AnimalServices/AnimalControl/disaster-preparedness.cfm.

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