PRESS RELEASE: Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue Offers Disaster Preparedness Guidelines for Equines Ahead of Severe Weather

With the start of meteorological spring and potential severe weather in the forecast, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue (PVDR) is urging equine owners to prepare now for disasters. Having a plan in place can make a difference during an emergency.

“As caretakers, it is our responsibility to think ahead,” said Kim Elger, chief operating officer at PVDR. “Emergency preparedness is not reactive. It is proactive. The time to prepare is long before disaster is on the horizon.”

Understand your risks. Identify flood or fire-prone areas on your property and map out evacuation routes, noting any that could become inaccessible. Utilize preparedness resources from local government and emergency management agencies.

Prepare your equines. Ensure each animal has permanent identification, such as a microchip or brand, and keep updated photos showing unique markings. Practice trailer loading so your animals are prepared to leave quickly if necessary. Maintain at least a week’s supply of feed and water per animal, along with an equine first aid kit stocked in consultation with your veterinarian or PVDR. Keep updated veterinary records on hand and store them in a waterproof container. 

Have a disaster plan in place. Arrange transportation in advance and designate safe spaces to go. If evacuation is not possible, confirm barns and shelters are structurally sound and reinforce as needed. Keep emergency contact information for your veterinarian, local animal rescue groups, and emergency officials readily available, and conduct practice drills.

If disaster strikes, stay calm. Animals pick up on stress, so maintaining a calm and focused demeanor will keep them calm as well. 

Read more about disaster preparedness here: https://donkeyrescue.org/news/pvdr-ears/disaster-planning-for-donkey-owners/

About Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue

Founded over two decades ago, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue is the largest equine rescue in the United States. The organization is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, training, and rehoming abused, neglected, and abandoned donkeys and providing lifetime sanctuary when necessary.