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Missoula OEM launches animal preparedness effort, schedules June events and resources for owners
Summary
Missoula OEM and MSU Extension are developing an animal preparedness program to reduce evacuation barriers caused by concerns about animals. Planned events in June include a hands‑on demonstration June 12 at Big Sky Horse Park, a webinar on Smart911 on June 16, and a Department of Livestock biosecurity lecture June 27.
Missoula County Office of Emergency Management and Montana State University Extension staff described a new animal preparedness initiative intended to reduce a common barrier to evacuation: concern for animals.
OEM staff said that people often delay or refuse evacuation because of livestock, pets or companion animals; historically the Red Cross does not accept animals in mass shelters. The initiative aims to help owners plan for their animals during emergencies by offering planning templates, outreach and hands‑on demonstrations.
Planned events include a kickoff and a hands‑on event June 12 at Big Sky Horse Park with demonstrations on trailering, temporary animal identification and animal first‑aid, a webinar about farm planning and Smart911 on June 16 (including how to upload animal information and photos to a safety profile), and a Department of Livestock biosecurity presentation on June 27.
OEM staff cautioned that the program is intended to boost individual preparedness rather than create an expectation that government will rescue all animals, and encouraged residents to use Smart911 to upload animal details to their safety profiles.
Ending: OEM said it will continue convening the animal preparedness group and will announce events and resources as they are finalized.
