SETTING UP VETERINARY MEDICAL OPERATIONS IN A DISASTER

摘要

More than 95 percent of emergencies and disasters are handled in their entirety at the local level (Dennison 2009). In addition, large emergencies that exceed local resource capacities begin and end locally. Emergency Management Coordinators employedby local governmental entities have the responsibility to develop local emergency preparedness plans including those for animals. Emergency managers are excellent at what they do; however, they often have limited animal experience. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians have a vital role in helping these professionals prepare for and deal with the animal issues that will inevitably arise. Involvement of our profession at the local level has been inconsistent and this void has often been filled by other animal groups that may not have the background or experience needed for meeting animal needs in a disaster. In Texas, veterinarians are one of the disciplines that have been listed as key partners; however, at least in Texas, involvement of veterinarians from a preparedness perspective has been inconsistent. In many cases, this has resulted in poor animal issues plans, particularly as they pertain to companion animals.