Disaster Preparedness

Disasters occur locally and are managed locally. When developing a disaster plan, veterinary practice owners and staff need to begin by understanding their businesses, available local resources, and where needs exist. Before a disaster strikes, find out what jurisdictions and organizations have authority over animal and business issues that may impact your practice.
Your practice’s readiness depends largely on considering our practice’s day to day operations and having a business continuity plan prepared ahead of time. A contingency plan does not need to be complex; the activities of creating a plan and practicing it with staff can help prepare your business for emergencies.

The goal of the AVMA’s Emergency Management Program is to encourage and foster veterinary leadership and guidance in local, state and federal efforts within the United States in preparation for: disasters and emergencies involving animals, animal and public health, and other veterinary issues.

The objective of this program is to advocate for appropriate support for all veterinary aspects of disaster and emergency situations within the United States.

Review a list of websites with information on National, State, and Local level.

Are you prepared to continue practicing in the aftermath
of a disaster?

It is essential that a veterinary practice have a written disaster plan. Click below to learn what it should include.