In This Section
Emergency Response & Disaster Relief Information
Humane Pennsylvania is committed to protecting animals and the people who love them – before, during, and after emergencies. Pet owners should have an emergency plan in place, so they are prepared. Disasters can happen anywhere and at any time, so looking ahead is key to keeping yourself and your animals safe.
How to Prepare
Stock up. Always maintain at least a one-week supply of all food, litter, supplies, and medications in the event of emergencies that prevent you from leaving your home.- Prepare an Emergency Travel Kit. Put the following supplies in a sturdy, waterproof container:
- A 3-day (minimum) supply of pet food and water with bowls (if possible, having a 2-week supply on hand is recommended)
- A 2-week supply of your pet’s medications
- Litter boxes, litter, and waste bags
- Crates, bedding, and toys
- Extra leashes and collars
- Vaccination and medical records
- Cleaning and sanitation supplies
- Identfication. Make sure your pets are wearing collars with current identification. If your pet is microchipped, make sure you address and phone number on file are up to date, in addition to listing an emergency contact outside of your immediate area. If your pet does not have a tag, use a Sharpie to write their name and your contact information on their collar.
- Know Your Vet. Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area in case your pet needs medical care. Be sure to add the contact information to your emergency kit.
- In Case of Emergency. Create a detailed emergency plan for how your pets will be cared for if you become sick or hospitalized, or if you are away. Include your name and contact information, your pet’s feeding schedule, any medical conditions, and treatment instructions. Document whether your pet is up to date on vaccinations, and list the contact information for your veterinarian.
Leading Animal Emergency Response in our Region & Beyond
Since 2004, Humane Pennsylvania has led the Berks County Animal Response Team (Berks CART) – one of the first County Animal Response Teams established in Pennsylvania and the only headed by an animal welfare organization.
Berks CART prepares for and responds to emergencies, including severe weather, flooding, fires, and other disasters that impact animals and their families. Our teams work year-round in coordination with emergency management professionals to ensure animals are not left behind during times of crisis.
Humane Pennsylvania’s emergency response work extends far beyond Berks County:
- Humane PA has provided training nationally on emergency response and sheltering and managed emergency and disaster response across the US over the past twenty years.
- We serve as board leadership with the Pennsylvania State Animal Response Team (PA SART)
- In partnership with PA SART and the American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region, we help coordinate the distribution of Pet Emergency Pallets (PEPs) across Pennsylvania to support shelters, rescues, and communities during disasters. PEPS include all the care items needed for the emergency sheltering of cats and dogs.
- In collaboration with PA SART, we operate two emergency supply warehouses, serving as Eastern Pennsylvania’s primary animal emergency resource
- To date, Humane PA has distributed over 500 tons of pet food and supplies to shelters, rescue organizations, school districts, and communities across Berks, Lancaster, and Chester counties during emergency activations.
- HPA programs like Spike’s Pet Food Pantry provide continued support for pet owners, with modified services during emergency situations at both our Berks and Lancaster locations.
- Humane PA has provided training nationally on emergency response and sheltering and managed emergency and disaster response across the US over the past twenty years.
Trusted Emergency Partners & Resources
Humane PA is proud to work alongside trusted partners dedicated to community safety and disaster preparedness:
Support Humane Pennsylvania’s Emergency Response Work
When disaster strikes, preparation and rapid response make all the difference for animals and for the people who care for them. Your support helps Humane Pennsylvania remain ready to respond across Berks County and throughout Pennsylvania.
If you have questions or would like to get involved, please use the submission form on our Contact Page to reach our emergency response team.
