Planning for emergency? Don’t forget pets

Pet owners urged to include animals in evacuation strategies

By Tyler Brown, Staff writer

October 1, 2026 8:02 am

Clark County, Life

Susan Anderson, senior director of disaster response for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, relaxes at her Vancouver home with her kitty, Bronto, 10, on Sept. 16. Anderson has deployed to countless natural disasters to help reunite displaced pets with their families and support animals left behind or in need of relocation. (Amanda Cowan/The Columbian)

Susan Anderson, senior director of disaster response for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, looks over some of the gear she uses in the field while relaxing at her Vancouver home with her kitty, Bronto, 10, on Sept. 16. Anderson has deployed to countless natural disasters to help reunite displaced pets with their families and support animals left behind or in need of relocation. (Photos by Amanda Cowan/The Columbian)

Bronto, 10, the cat belonging to Susan Anderson, is pictured next to the gear Anderson uses in the field.

Susan Anderson relaxes at her Vancouver home with her cat Bronto on Sept. 16.

Susan Anderson ASPCA senior director of disaster response

When a wildfire crests a ridge or floodwaters rise, the instinct to flee often clashes with the love for a pet. In the frantic rush to escape, a lack of preparation can force residents to make impossible choices that put both animal and human lives in jeopardy.

As September marks National Preparedness Month, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and local emergency management officials are urging pet owners to create evacuation plans — that account for all household members, including pets — before disaster strikes.

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