National Animal Emergency Response

Thank you for your interest and support of Humane Canada’s National Emergency Response.

Pets are family. They bring us comfort, companionship, and unconditional love, and when emergencies hit, they deserve to be protected just like any other member of the household.

At Humane Canada, we’re taking action, so animals aren’t overlooked when disaster strikes. We are advocating for emergency response plans that include pets from the beginning, not as an afterthought.  Summer is still here, and temperatures are warm, the threat of wildfires remain. People can be forced to evacuate at a moment’s notice and sadly many are told they can’t bring their pets with them. 

Your support can change that.

We are working to build a country-wide system that rescues animals, reunites families, and gives professional responders the tools they need to act fast. No one should have to choose between their own safety and the animals they love. Your support helps to create trust between agencies & give animals the best chance of survival & reunion. We will protect the most vulnerable, strengthen communities & keep families together.

Humane Canada is urging the federal government to implement a national animal emergency response program so that all Canadians can feel prepared, including those with pets. You can share your support and help ensure animals are protected when it matters most.

Together, we’re creating a future in which no animal is left behind in an emergency. We are grateful for your advocacy and care for animals in Canada and we look forward to keeping you updated on National Emergency Response progress.

Links:

• Humane Canada
• Letter to Include Animals in Emergency Response

With your generous support, Humane Canada is working to make critical progress toward a future where animals are protected in every emergency. Together, we’re laying the foundation for Canada’s first coordinated response system that includes animals as part of the plan, not an afterthought. 

Here’s how your support can make a difference: 

You’re Helping Open Doors with Fire Chiefs Across Canada 

In over 80% of Canadian municipalities, the fire chief is also responsible for emergency management. With your support, we’re working alongside the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs to create a new outreach resource that helps our members and local emergency responders start essential conversations in their communities. This simple but powerful tool introduces local fire services and emergency planners to nearby animal welfare organizations, helping ensure animals are included in planning before the next emergency. 

You’re Building Bridges with the Red Cross 

You’re also helping us strengthen relationships between Humane Canada members and the Canadian Red Cross. Because the Red Cross works at national and community levels during emergencies, these connections will help animal responders be seen, included, and supported wherever help is needed most. 

You’re Fueling National-Level Change 

In a promising development, the Prime Minister recently named Eleanor Olszewski Canada’s new Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience. Humane Canada will contact the Minister to advocate for stronger national coordination and ensure that animals are part of the conversation from the start, not after it’s too late. 

What Comes Next — And Why It Matters 

Every step you’re helping us to build trust, raises awareness, and ensures the right people are in the room. We know that 60% of Canadian households have pets. We also know that many families will not evacuate unless they know their animals are safe. That’s why this work is so urgent—and why your support means so much. 

Together, we’re creating a future in which no animal is left behind in an emergency and no one has to choose between safety and leaving a family member behind. 

Thank you for being a vital part of this national movement. Your compassion is helping to protect lives, reunite families, and bring real change to how we respond in times of crisis. 

Links:

• http://www.humanecanada.ca