Bipartisan Efforts to Safeguard Pets During Disasters: The PETSAFE Act of 2026
In a significant move to enhance disaster preparedness for animals, a bipartisan bill known as the PETSAFE Act of 2026 has been introduced in Congress. Rooted in the experiences from last year’s devastating L.A.-area fires, this proposed legislation seeks to address a critical gap in emergency management—how to ensure the safety of pets during such critical situations.
Understanding the PETSAFE Act
The PETSAFE Act, an acronym for "Providing Essential Temporary Shelter Assistance For Emergencies," aims to broaden the use of emergency management funds. Specifically, it enables local governments to plan evacuations that prioritize the safety of animals. The bill proposes the expansion of FEMA’s Emergency Management Performance Grant program, increasing the federal cost share for animal-related preparedness activities from 50% to 90%. This substantial increase aims to remove financial barriers for communities, making it more feasible to establish robust emergency protection plans for both people and their pets.
Rep. Judy Chu, a Democratic representative from Southern California, has been a vocal advocate for this legislation. She highlighted that during the Eaton Fire, many residents hesitated to evacuate solely because they couldn’t bear the thought of leaving their pets behind. This often heightened the danger not just for the pets, but also for the families and first responders involved in rescue efforts.
Gripping Testimonials from Local Advocates
In an interview with LAist, Rep. Chu reflected on the heartbreaking scenes she witnessed during the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. "I’ll never forget seeing the cats, dogs, and other animals with burned feet and singed fur being cared for by Pasadena Humane,” she shared. This experience fueled her determination to pursue the PETSAFE Act, which she believes could significantly enhance the safety protocols for pets during emergencies. "If there is even one more thing we could do to keep our precious pets safe, wouldn’t we want to do that?” she poignantly asked.
The Specifics of the Legislation
The PETSAFE Act would permit state, local, and tribal governments to allocate grant funds for various animal-related resources during disasters. This includes expenses for pet supplies, veterinary equipment, emergency generators, and even training for personnel involved in animal care during crises. For pet owners facing evacuation, the act could alleviate the "impossible choice" between leaving their beloved animals behind or risking their own safety.
Reportedly, the bill has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and is garnering attention for its potential to dramatically improve the response to animal welfare during emergencies. The supporters argue that it doesn’t authorize new federal spending. Instead, it leverages existing funding to enhance animal safety measures.
Lessons from Previous Disasters
Rep. Chu shared that organizations like Pasadena Humane played a pivotal role during the Eaton Fire, providing much-needed care for over 1,500 pets and wildlife during the crisis. There are stories of her team finding a horse sheltered in their garage, illustrating the lengths to which local shelters went to protect animals amid the chaos. Chris Ramon, the president of Pasadena Humane, reflected on this organic response, stating, "Disaster preparedness is something that just is an ongoing conversation for us at Pasadena Humane."
Notably, the ASPCA also contributed significantly during the Eaton Fire, rescuing more than 530 animals, including a variety of pets like goats and parakeets. Rep. Chu expressed her admiration for local organizations that stepped up to care for the animals and emphasized the necessity for better systematic protocols for animal evacuations. The long-term goal is to relieve overwhelmed shelters and ensure an effective response when catastrophes strike.
Broader Legislative Initiatives
The PETSAFE Act isn’t the lone legislative effort aimed at improving pet safety during disasters. Earlier, California enacted the FOUND Act, which mandates cities and counties to incorporate pet rescue procedures in their emergency plans. This previous law was inspired by the heartwarming reunion of a Pomeranian named Oreo with its owner during the Palisades Fire, illustrating the deep emotional bonds people share with their pets.
Conclusion
As communities grapple with the increased frequency of natural disasters, the PETSAFE Act of 2026 serves as both a timely response and a testament to the evolving recognition of pets as integral members of families. Its bipartisan support signifies a collective commitment to ensuring that no family member is left behind in times of crisis. As this legislation progresses, the hope is not just for improved protocols, but for enhanced kindness toward all creatures who share our lives.
