Animals and natural disasters

Natural disasters are becoming more frequent in Australia, and more severe when they happen. Animals often become victims in floods, fires, cyclones and storms, and suffer alongside people when disaster strikes.

For pets, horses and livestock, it's the owner's responsibility to do everything they can to ensure their animals are safe during an emergency. Fortunately, it's not too difficult to include animals in each household's emergency plans. Here are some tips and checklists to consider as you decide how you will respond to a disaster in your neighbourhood.

Veterinary hospitals, like all animal businesses, also need to make sure they also have a plan for the animals in their care in the event of an emergency.

The Australian Veterinary Association helps organisations responding to an emergency to access volunteer veterinarians and other veterinary staff. We also have some online resources for vets on treating animals injured in natural disasters.

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