PRESS RELEASES - NOVEMBER 2006

Arlington Has a Disaster Plan for Pets and Service Animals
“Save My Pet” Decals are Now Available at Animal Services

November 17, 2006

The City of Arlington Animal Services Division is launching a new tool to help ensure the safe rescue of pets and service animals during an emergency.

President George W. Bush signed into law the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act on October 6 in response to lessons learned in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The act will ensure that America’s pets and service animals are not left behind in a disaster. The PETS Act requires local and state emergency preparedness authorities to include pets and service animals in their disaster plans.

A critical component to Arlington’s animal disaster plan is the ability to alert rescuers when pets and service animals are kept within a residence, said Community Services Department Assistant Director Mike Bass. The City’s Animal Services Division is now offering “Save My Pet” decals.

A pet alert decal can be posted on any window or door area to visibly capture the attention of emergency rescue personnel. The decals are made of weather-proof vinyl materials and can adhere to any glass surface without adhesive. Decals can be purchased at the Arlington Animal Services Center, 5920 W. Pioneer Parkway at $5 for a package of two. Proceeds will benefit the purchase of new diagnostic medical equipment for animals.

“In addition to the oxygen masks becoming new standard equipment on all Fire Department emergency service vehicles, the Animal Services Division is taking an extra step to help emergency rescue officials know when an animal is inside a dwelling,” said Animal Services Manager Chris Huff.

For more information about the new pet alert decals, call Animal Services at 817-451-3436 or visit the City of Arlington website at www.arlingtontx.gov.