With the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PagAsa) warning that current El Niño conditions could intensify in the coming weeks, bringing extreme heat, drought, and stronger typhoons, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has sent a joint letter calling on the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure that captive animals on farms, zoos, and other facilities throughout the country are included in all disaster preparedness and response plans. PETA is also asking the public to look at their own homes and neighborhoods.
The appeal comes as recent severe weather across Asia has left countless animals injured, displaced, or dead. In China, severe flooding from a recent typhoon reportedly washed away more than 16,000 pigs from farms and more than 900 snakes from breeding facilities, along with zebras, ostriches, and other animals who had been confined in zoos—highlighting the devastating consequences of failing to take animals into account before disasters strike.
“Terrified animals face prolonged, agonizing deaths when trapped in floods, exposed to extreme heat, or left behind during evacuations,” says PETA president Jason Baker. “PETA is urging government agencies to put comprehensive plans in place now to protect farmed animals and wildlife from extreme weather and reminds guardians to always include companion animals in their emergency plans.”
PETA is also sharing the following tips to help members of the public keep companion animals safe during extreme weather:
o Pack an emergency kit for yourself and one for any animals in the family, and keep them where they’re easy to grab in a hurry. Include bowls, towels, a favorite toy for comfort, and at least a week’s worth of food, bottled water, and medications. Periodically rotate the food and medications so they don’t expire.
o Have animals tagged. Make sure they’re wearing collars with legible ID tags that include your current contact information. Keep a recent photo of your animals for identification purposes, just as you would for a child.
o During extreme weather, keep all animals indoors with you as the situation develops. Never leave them in a vehicle or tethered, penned, or crated outside.
o If evacuation becomes necessary, take animals with you. Plan destinations well in advance. If you will need a trailer for horses, goats, or other animals, know where you can easily get one.
o When you leave: Leash dogs and put cats and other small animals in secure carriers, as frightened animals may bolt. Be sure to take the animal emergency kit that you’ve prepared. (Advisory courtesy of PETA Asia-Pacific)
To know more about PETA and its activities in the region, visit https://www.petaasia.com/.