Hearing

Examining the issue of animals in disasters is an important topic in preparing for and responding to disasters.

Animals play unique roles as they can be resources following a disaster: aiding in search and rescue, serving people with disabilities, necessary to individuals’ livelihood in the agricultural communities, or even as many Americans feel today – pets that are truly members of the family.  All of those variations of animals in disaster situations present unique challenges and opportunities for the federal government aiding in all phases of disaster response and recovery.

Particularly today, I am pleased to have a witness from my home state of North Carolina, Dr. Meckes, who serves as the State Veterinarian.  I look forward to hearing about how North Carolina has handled animal response during the several disasters that have hit our state over the past few years.

While we focus on the critical issues of saving lives and helping communities rebuild smarter and faster after a disaster, addressing the challenges related to animals is important.

The canines and their handlers in our search and rescue teams are critical to saving lives.  Ensuring their proper care while engaged in search and rescue missions ensures those operations are effective. 

In rural communities, livestock is critical to the state and local economies and, ultimately, to the Nation’s food supply.

Effective preparedness and planning for response and recovery must include how we plan for and manage animals in areas hit by disaster.  I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today about best practices and where we can do better.