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National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

Don't let your furry friends be caught off guard during a natural disaster - mark your calendars for National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day!

Saturday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 8

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYAnimal Welfare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day on May 8! This day was created to raise awareness about the importance of including our beloved pets in disaster preparedness plans. Did you know that over 60% of American households have at least one pet? In times of natural disasters, it's crucial to have a plan in place to ensure the safety and well-being of our furry friends. From hurricanes to wildfires, there are many potential emergencies that can threaten our pets' lives. So let's take this day as an opportunity to learn more about how we can protect our animal companions during times of crisis.

TIMELINE

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day Timeline

FEMA Established

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is established, marking the beginning of federal intervention in disaster preparedness, including provisions for pets.

Oakland Firestorm

The Oakland Firestorm sparks discussions on the need for better animal disaster preparedness after many pets were lost or injured.

Animal Disaster Response Teams

The formation of specialized animal disaster response teams begins across the USA, working to evacuate and care for animals during crises.

Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina highlights the importance of pet disaster preparedness, leading to changes in federal law to consider pets in disaster plans.

PETS Act

The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act is enacted, requiring state disaster plans to include provisions for household pets and service animals.

First Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

The first National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day is observed, raising awareness about the need to include pets in emergency plans.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day

Create an emergency plan for your pets

Sit down with your family and make a plan for what to do in case of a disaster. This should include a designated safe place for your pets, a list of important phone numbers, and a plan for transportation if you need to evacuate.

PREPARE

Prepare a disaster kit for your pets

Put together a bag of essential items for your pets in case of an emergency. This should include food and water, medications, first aid supplies, and any other necessary items.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information about National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day and the importance of being prepared for disasters with your friends and followers.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local animal shelter

Reach out to your local animal shelter and ask if they need any volunteers to help with disaster preparedness efforts for the animals in their care. This is a great way to make a direct impact in your community.

HOST

Host a fundraiser for a disaster relief organization

Organize a fundraising event or online campaign to support organizations that provide aid to animals during disasters. This is a great way to raise awareness and make a difference for animals in need.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day is Important

It encourages responsible pet ownership

Being prepared for a natural disaster means not only taking care of ourselves, but also ensuring the safety and well-being of our pets. This day serves as a reminder for pet owners to stay up-to-date on vaccinations, have emergency supplies on hand, and plan for their pets' evacuation or sheltering needs in case of emergency.

It helps save lives

During natural disasters, animals can often be the forgotten victims. By being prepared and having a plan in place, we can help protect and care for our furry friends in times of crisis.

It raises awareness for animal safety

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day highlights the importance of including animals in emergency planning. This not only benefits individual pet owners, but it also spreads awareness about animal welfare to the general public.

Related holidays

National Pet Preparedness Month

Don't let your furry friends get left behind in an emergency - join us this National Pet Preparedness Month to learn how to keep them safe and ready for anything.

National Pet Fire Safety Day

Be prepared for the unexpected - keep your furry friends safe with fire safety tips and tricks on National Pet Fire Safety Day!

National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

Keep your furry friends safe and healthy this month by brushing up on pet first aid techniques and stocking up on essentials for emergencies.

National Animal Safety and Protection Month

It's time to raise awareness and take action for our furry friends during National Animal Safety and Protection Month - let's make a difference together!

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