September is National Preparedness Month

To better prepare in the event of an emergency, the American Association of Equine Practitioners has joined the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, along with other veterinary and equine organizations, to promote the need for equine emergency and disaster preparedness. To help horse owners and veterinarians get ready in advance for an emergency or disaster, the AAEP provides several online resources. Available tools include a hurricane equine evacuation plan, disaster planning guidelines for veterinarians and links to numerous state and federal agencies. To access these materials and more, visit www.aaep.org/emergency_prep.htm.

“As we’ve learned from flooding, fires and other natural disasters this year, planning ahead can mean the difference between life and death for humans and horses alike,” says Manuel A. Thomas Jr., DVM, chairman of the AAEP Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Committee. “Having the proper housing for animals, food and water supplies and evacuation transportation options ready are just a few of the key decisions that should be made before an emergency occurs.”