The mission of protecting the entire family, including pets and livestock, has been a driving force behind evolving disaster response strategies over the past decade. This shift prompted a revision of animal emergency management practices, led by a collaborative effort funded by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Animal Care.

The USDA, in a collaborative effort with the University of Kentucky, the National Alliance of State Animal and Agriculture Emergency Programs (NASAAEP), the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition (NARSC), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and other key stakeholders, played a crucial role in updating, consolidating, and creating best practices for animal emergency management.

After a comprehensive and thorough 24-month effort, the 2023 NASAAEP Current Best Practices in Animal Emergency Management documents were published. These documents were developed by subject matter experts (SMEs), guided by the Best Practices Working Group (BPWG) Steering Committee, and underwent a rigorous external peer review process.

BPWG documents typically cover a range of topics, including:

1. Preparedness:
   • Guidelines for creating disaster preparedness plans for pets, livestock, and wildlife.
   • Recommendations for emergency supplies and evacuation plans for animal owners.
2. Response:
   • Best practices for animal search and rescue operations.
   • Strategies for setting up emergency shelters for animals.
   • Coordination with local, state, and federal agencies.
3. Recovery:
   • Guidelines for reunifying animals with their owners.
   • Mental health considerations for owners and responders.
   • Long-term care and rehabilitation of affected animals.
4. Training and Education:
   • Training programs for responders on handling animals during disasters.
   • Public education campaigns to raise awareness about animal disaster preparedness.
5. Policy and Legislation:
   • Advocacy for laws and regulations that protect animals during disasters.
   • Recommendations for incorporating animal welfare into broader disaster response plans.
6. Case Studies and Lessons Learned:
   • Analysis of past disaster responses involving animals.
   • Identification of successful strategies and areas for improvement.

https://www.thenasaaep.com/nasaaep-best-practice-working-groups

1. Evacuation and Transportation (Pets and Equine)
2. Veterinary Medical Response
3. Community Engagement and Preparedness
4. Animal Search and Rescue 
5. Incident Command and Coordination
6. Decontamination
7. Mass Care and Sheltering
8. Planning and Resource Management