On Saturday, May 10, pet owners will receive a pet emergency backpack with a $40 donation to any Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) shelter in Boston, Brewster, or Dedham in honor of National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day. ARL emergency backpack comes packed with critical survival items included extended shelf-life water and food for dogs and cats.
As parts of the U.S. battle floods, tornadoes, and wild fires, the ARL encourages Massachusetts’ pet owners to plan ahead for a sudden evacuation.
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“If you have a pet, part of your emergency planning should include how you will shelter and care for your animal,” explains Brian O’Connor, manager of rescue services at the ARL.
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“Getting a pet emergency bag ready to go in case you need to evacuate due to flooding or loss of electricity during a storm or other disaster is a very important part of disaster preparedness.”
Visit arlboston.org/packing-list for a list of supplies to add to a pet emergency bag.
In addition to an emergency bag, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends:
- Getting a sturdy and comfy crate or carrier to transport your pet
- Finding a shelter alternative that works for both you and your pet
- Having a picture of you and your pet together in case you get separated during an emergency
“Having a recent picture of you and your pet not only helps others assist you in finding your pet, but it also documents ownership,” says O’Connor.
To inspire picture-taking, through May 10, pet owners can share a photo of themselves with their pet on the ARL's Instagram using hashtag #arlluvpets to enter to win a pet emergency backpack. Visit arlboston.org/packing-list for more information.
The ARL pet emergency backpacks are available with a donation on May 10 while supplies last. For shelter locations and hours, visit arlboston.org
About the Animal Rescue League of Boston
Founded in 1899, the ARL is dedicated to rescuing domesticated animals and wildlife from suffering, cruelty, abandonment, and neglect. In 2013, the ARL served over 14,000 individual animals through our shelters in Boston, Brewster, and Dedham, and our law enforcement, rescue, and veterinary services. The ARL receives no government funding and relies solely on the generosity of supporters to help animals in need.
