Source: NPR
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, tens of thousands of pets were left behind as evacuations and shelters often prohibited animals. Many residents, like Nita Hemeter, stayed behind to rescue or care for stranded pets, highlighting the lack of emergency planning for animals. The crisis shocked the nation, with heartbreaking stories of families forced to abandon pets or refusing rescue without them. Nearly half of those who didn’t evacuate stayed because of pets, a factor that contributed to Katrina’s tragic toll of nearly 1,400 deaths.
The disaster spurred Congress to pass the 2006 Pet Evacuation & Transportation Safety (PETS) Act, requiring pets to be included in disaster planning. Since then, responders emphasize that saving pets saves lives, as owners are more likely to evacuate with proper accommodations. Despite progress, experts stress continued preparedness, urging families to evacuate with pets and maintain emergency supplies for both humans and animals.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/26/nx-s1-5467727/hurricane-katrina-pets-animal-rescue-disaster