The province is getting ready to amend and ‘modernize’ Emergency Management Legislation and the BC SPCA wants an obligation for pets and livestock.

It’s not wildfire season yet but looking at what’s happening in Australia and what’s happened here in the past, the say people know how fast the situation can change.

BC SPCA Chief Prevention and Enforcement Officer, Marcie Moriarty, was on NL Newsday and pointed to the stress of being an animal owner in the face of an emergency.

“It’s tragic and emotional of course for any family to have to evacuate at short notice,” she said. “And when they are worried that they can’t have a safe place for their pets, they can delay leaving and we know that minutes can make a difference in these situations.”

At present, B.C. does not require local authorities to include domestic animals in emergency planning, response or emergency support services, which Moriarty points out has serious consequences – including the loss of animal life, or owner not evacuating if there’s no safe place for their pets.

“We’re wanting to support people during emergencies. And one of the best ways to support them is to ensure that they feel that their family members, including their pets are cared for,” she added. “Pets are part of our families and when a disaster strikes, it is extremely stressful for people to consider leaving their animals behind or having to try and care for them while displaced from their home.”

“So, we’re excited about this opportunity and we hope that again, government considers really, specifically addressing animals in this legislation.”

Moriarty says the change will not only be good for animals, but for front line workers as well.

“Our constables have had to go behind the lines to help animals left abandoned and providing temporary food and water and this really though speaks to that human – animal bond.”

You can help by signing an online petition for the province to include animals in any upcoming changes by going to their website.