The Vermont Disaster Animal Response Team (VDART) was established in 2007 in order to strengthen and support the state’s capacity to respond to animal needs in the event of a disaster. We provide vital resources and advice to pet owners, animal-related businesses and non-profits, local communities, and state agencies in this area. Read More
Helping Animals In Disasters
WHEN A DISASTER STRIKES, JOANNE BOURBEAU IS READY TO DEPLOY HER TEAMS TO STEP UP AND HELP.
During a disaster, Bourbeau, who is the board chair of the nonprofit Vermont Disaster Animal Response Team (VDART) as well as the Northeast Regional Director for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), works behind the scenes to coordinate a response to keep animals out of harm’s way. That means when incidents ranging from widespread floods to traffic accidents overwhelm local resources, they procure and set up temporary animal shelters, transport pets to safety and provide for their needs — such as food, water, shelter and veterinary care — until they can be reunited with their families.
“WE NEVER WANT PEOPLE IN A SITUATION WHERE THEY HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THEIR ANIMALS AND AN EVACUATION.”
Download the PDF State Farm Fall/Winter Good Neighbor (pages 5-6)