Hubbardston reviews pet‑sheltering plan, storage and animal‑care logistics

S1 circulated an updated animal‑shelter plan drawn from Central Massachusetts Disaster Animal Response Team (CMDART) guidance and asked the committee to review recommended procedures and supply lists. "They do have some start up supplies available," S1 said, noting CMDART has a trailer used across Worcester County that contains cages and food the town could access.

The group discussed operational questions: appropriate shelter temperatures (S1 said shelters should be kept between about 60 and 65 degrees to avoid cold stress for animals), where to locate a pet shelter (highway department, gymnasium or large community space were suggested), and how to handle proof‑of‑vaccination or rabies documentation when owners evacuate without paperwork. Participants also debated whether people can shelter with their pets; S1 reiterated that only service animals should be housed with people in mass shelters, not emotional‑support animals or reptiles.

Storage, logistics and supply‑life issues were raised: S4 noted the challenge of funding and shelf life for supplies; S1 said CMDART’s trailer had been used to supply other towns after incidents and that the town should check where the trailer is currently stored. The agricultural commission will handle livestock planning and horses, S1 said, and the committee agreed to follow up with CMDART and local animal‑control officers on trailer location and agreements.

Next steps: review the CMDART recommendations line by line, identify local storage options, and check with neighboring towns about trailer placement and availability before the April 7 session.