Advancements in Disaster Response: Reflecting on 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina

Photo from previous ASPCA rescue operation.

In recognition of the 20^th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and National Preparedness Month in September, ASPCA disaster response experts are urging pet owners to prioritize emergency preparedness for the entire family (including pets) and are looking back on how disaster response efforts have evolved over time.

Advancements Since Hurricane Katrina

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina revealed significant deficiencies in public preparedness, unclear state guidance and a shortage of pet-friendly emergency shelters, escalating the risks associated with emergency response and resulting in unsafe situations for people and their pets. To improve emergency readiness and response, animal welfare organizations came together to create NARSC (National Animal Rescue & Sheltering Coalition) to identify, prioritize and find collaborative solutions to major human-animal emergency issues. The creation of NARSC — of which the ASPCA is a founding member — has helped animal welfare organizations better coordinate efforts and resources when responding to widespread disasters.

Our research indicates that incorporating animals into disaster planning policies can help prevent tragic outcomes. Since Hurricane Katrina, we have advocated for policies that enhance disaster preparedness and response efforts to ensure animals are included in emergency planning and enable vets to transport and dispense vital medicines while performing in the field. Most recently, we have led efforts to enact laws in California, Colorado, Nevada and Washington to ensure that local governments designate pet-friendly sheltering sites, allowing individuals to evacuate with their pets safely. In 2020, Florida enacted a similar ASPCA-supported law requiring each county that establishes emergency shelters to designate a shelter accommodating people with pets.

“As we reflect on the 20^th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina during National Preparedness Month, we are reminded of the vital role that preparedness plays in safeguarding our pets during disasters. Lessons learned from past crises emphasize that planning for our animal companions is not just compassionate; it’s essential,” says Tim Rickey, vice president of National Field Response for the ASPCA. “By developing disaster response plans for all members of the family well in advance, pet owners can better ensure the safety and well-being of their companion animals, in turn allowing local agencies to dedicate their resources to homeless animals and pets with the most critical needs.”

Looking Ahead: Disaster Preparedness Grants

Photo from previous ASPCA rescue operation.

As one of the country’s largest animal welfare grant makers, we provide essential grants and collaborate with hundreds of local shelters, working together to save and improve the lives of animals by providing life-changing tools and resources to help give even more animals a second chance. To recognize the upcoming anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the ASPCA is providing up to $600,000 in disaster preparedness funding to animal welfare organizations and governmental agencies in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, where Hurricane Katrina had the most devastating impacts.

Up to $500,000 of this funding is available through an open application process from August 29 through September 30 2025, to cover expenses for temporary emergency sheltering supplies, animal evacuation equipment, field rescue gear, pet supplies for disaster-related community distribution, emergency preparedness training and more.

As part of this initiative, we will also be matching every donation made, up to $100,000, to the Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA) from now until the end of October 2025, to support pet adoptions, lifesaving rescue services, advanced veterinary care and vital community support.

Steps You Can Take to Stay Prepared

Photo from previous ASPCA rescue operation.

A past ASPCA survey revealed that while a significant percentage of pet owners live in areas prone to disasters, more than half do not have an emergency preparedness plan in place. As natural disasters continue to increase in frequency and severity, disaster preparedness is critical to better protect companion animals, who are often among the most vulnerable during life-threatening events.

Some disaster tips to keep top of mind include

• Evacuate with your pets. If evacuation becomes necessary, always take your pets with you. Leaving pets behind or tethering them outside can prevent them from escaping high waters and reaching safe areas.
• Arrange a safe haven. Secure a safe haven to take your pets, such as boarding kennels, emergency shelters, pet-friendly hotels or the homes of friends or family members.
• Prepare emergency supplies and a travel kit. Create a “go bag,” filled with emergency supplies and travel kits that include pet ID tags, food, clean water, medications, a pet carrier, food and water bowls and other necessities. Your supplies should be sufficient for at least 7 to 10 days.
• Keep records handy. Ensure that you have copies of your pet’s medical records available in your travel kit. It’s also helpful to have photographs of you and your pets accessible in case of separation.
• Update pet identification. Ensure that your pets are always wearing identification tags with current contact information. We also recommend verifying your pet’s microchip registration information to maintain accurate contact details. In case your pet is separated during a disaster, tracking/GPS collars can also be good alternatives, especially since many pets wander off during storms.