Group Holds Drill For People, Pet Rescue-Drill To Prepare Volunteers In Disaster Emergency

Reported By Tom Randles

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A major aid organization is working in Tennessee to make sure pets are safe when disaster strikes.

As if taking a cue from the dog, Kerri Burns barked instructions during a drill to volunteers. The drill, staged by American Humane, is to prepare volunteers for any natural or man-made chaos that leaves people and pets vulnerable.

"Water's important. It's hot outside. Work from the ground up. Take care of the animals and the people," Burns said to the volunteers.

"Please, take your pet with you. Take their medication, a crate, leash, water, food -- just like you'd prepare your family to leave for at least 72 hours," Burns said.

Animals welfare volunteers from across the state learned during the drill to think fast, improvise and deal with all sorts of challenges.

Getting pet supplies to those in need is only part of what they do. A giant truck has everything needed to help people and animals in the worst conditions.

"It has a washer and drier, a kitchen, and they can actually perform surgeries. They have a complete surgical unit," Burns said.

American Humane was founded in 1877 and has been helping protect children and animals ever since.

During the recent floods in Iowa, the nonprofit group rescued almost 70 pigs. The organization has saved thousands of other animals in other disasters.