BMC and the Humane Society teach how to care for animals during emergencies | Baltimore Metropolitan Council

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BMC and the Humane Society teach how to care for animals during emergencies

Press Release
Press Releases

BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, July 30, 2025) – As part of ongoing efforts to enhance emergency preparedness before the 2025 hurricane season, the Baltimore Metropolitan Council partnered with the American Human Society to facilitate a two-day training exercise. Organized by Emergency Preparedness Planner Blake Fisher, the event brought together key emergency management partners from across the Baltimore region to address a critical aspect of disaster planning, caring for animals during emergencies.

With 49% of Maryland households owning pets, ensuring their safety during disasters is essential for a comprehensive emergency response. The training is designed to help local jurisdictions develop and refine plans for pet sheltering, improving coordination, and enhancing the overall resilience of their communities. 

“Preparing for animal needs during emergencies will not be an afterthought,” said BMC Executive Director Mike Kelly. “Animals are family to so many Marylanders.”

Participants learned how to set up and manage pet shelters during emergencies, ranging from logistics and staffing to health and safety considerations. The exercise supported and focused on inclusive disaster housing strategies from the Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program (RCPGP).

UASI representatives at disaster planning for animals during emergencies.

The training brought together representatives from the Baltimore Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) jurisdictions, including Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County. Additional participants included the Maryland Department of Human Services and Prince George’s County Office of Emergency Management.

 “Our jurisdictions walked away with a deeper understanding of what it takes to open and manage a pet shelter during an emergency,” said Emergency Preparedness Planner Blake Fisher.

For more information about preparedness and upcoming emergency planning, visit baltometro.org/community/planning-areas/emergency-preparedness.

 

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The Baltimore Metropolitan Council provides a regional forum for our members and state and local partners to identify mutual interests and collaborate on strategies, plans and programs that help improve economic vitality and quality of life for all.

BMC operates its programs and services without regard to race, color or national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable laws. Appropriate services can be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities or those in need of language assistance who submit a request at least seven days prior to a meeting. Call 410- 732-0500. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-735-2258 to initiate a TTY call through Maryland Relay. Si se necesita información de Título VI en español, llame al 410-732-0500.

 

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