Protecting Pets When Disaster Strikes
September is National Preparedness Month. Join us for lifesaving tips, powerful rescue stories and ways to protect animals before the next emergency hits.
Be Ready Before the Sirens Sound
Disasters strike fast, but you can be ready. Whether it’s wildfire, tornado or hurricane, having a plan in place can help save lives.
Download our free Ultimate Pet Preparedness Toolkit to help you prepare your pets and your family.
20+ Years Since Katrina, 100+ Years of Rescue
American Humane Society’s first rescue efforts date back to World War I, and today, we continue to respond to disasters in the U.S. and worldwide.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina marked a turning point. The heartbreaking separation of pets from their families and lack of coordinated animal rescue revealed major gaps in disaster planning. In response, new laws like the PETS Act were passed, local emergency plans began to include animals and more pet-friendly shelters were established.
We have played a vital role in this evolution, raising awareness, sharing best practices and training communities to better protect animals during emergencies. Our rescue teams are positioned across the country and ready to deploy. We respond wherever animals are in crisis, bringing care and hope when it matters most.
Hurricane Response: Past Deployments
Since Hurricane Katrina, American Humane Society has deployed to countless disasters across the country. Learn more about our rescue work
Hurricane Harvey
Hurricane Dorian
Hurricane Ida
Hurricane Ian
Hurricane Helene
See Our Rescue Team in Action
When wildfires swept through California, American Humane Society was there, saving animals, reuniting families and bringing hope. This video captures the compassion and coordination it takes to protect animals when every second counts.
Be There When Animals Face Disaster
With your support, we can continue to respond wherever animals are in need and lead the way in building a more compassionate world.