California Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening pet rescue efforts during natural disasters. The FOUND Act — Friends of Oreo Uniting During Disasters — would require local governments to implement procedures for rescuing pets during evacuations and establish systems to reunite animals with their owners.
The bill was inspired by the story of a Pomeranian named Oreo, who survived five days in the rubble of his owner’s home after a wildfire. The legislation includes provisions that would update emergency plans to include specific procedures for rescuing pets from mandatory evacuation zones. It also requires online resources about pet evacuation and reunification assistance.
A significant increase is proposed, extending the holding period for rescued pets to at least 90 days before they can be adopted out or euthanized. This change was made after animal rescuers highlighted gaps in the current system during recent wildfires.
The bill has been supported by Social Compassion in Legislation, an animal welfare advocacy organization. Proponents argue that this legislation represents a critical step toward ensuring disaster response plans address the safety and well-being of animals.
The Found Act will be referred to a policy committee in the coming days, according to Zbur’s office.
Source: https://smdp.com/featured/zbur-introduces-new-legislation-to-protect-pets-during-a-disaster