EXEMPLARY PRACTICES IN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Veterinary Services and Animal Care Annex
Program Description: In disasters, animal owners may hinder effective emergency management by remaining with their animals during an evacuation or by attempting reentry in dangerous areas. In addition, the environment may be affected by disrupted livestock production systems. The Veterinary Services and Animal Care Annex to the State Emergency Operations Plan was implemented through a collaborative effort among the Indiana State Emergency Management Agency, State Board of Animal Health, Indiana Veterinary Medical Association, Indiana Association of Animal Control Personnel, Indiana Veterinary Technicians Associations, and several accredited zoos. Unique to this annex are a series of Memoranda of Understanding among the Emergency Management Agency, State Veterinarian, and professional animal care-providing groups, because they integrate existing emergency management services with qualified groups that know how to deal with animals in disasters. The Annex and Memoranda of Understanding facilitate the care of the large segment of society that owns animals for companionship or revenue, maintains the quality of life that the human-animal bond provides, and ensures the optimal level of care for the environment and safety in public health.
Evaluation Information: There have been more than 70 favorable press notices and national media coverage about the Annex. Several inquiries (government and nongovernment) have been made requesting background information and copies of the annex.
Annual Budget: None.
Sources of Funding: Donations and inkind contributions.
Program Type: Facilitation of care and integration of resources for animal rescue.
Target Population: Citizens of Indiana who have livestock and companion animals.
Setting: Statewide.
Project Startup Date: 1995.
Contact:
Melvin Carraway
Director
Indiana State Emergency Management Agency
302 West Washington Street
Room E208 IGCS
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Tel: 317-232-3986
Fax: 317-232-3895
Last Modified: Saturday, 30-May-2009 00:01:25 EDT