Law Requires Disaster Planning For Pets, Too

"Pets are now protected under the little-noticed federal law, the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act. Signed by President Bush in October, it requires emergency preparedness authorities to include in their plans accommodations for household pets and service animals. Without adhering to the provision, states and communities cannot receive disaster relief funds."

"Emergency management officials acknowledge that many people will not allow themselves to be evacuated without their pets. The challenge is to find a place for them, since most shelters that take in people will not accommodate pets."

"But many officials are unaware of the law or have not had the time or resources to implement it."