Abstract

Veterinarians have essential roles in disaster preparedness and response and can serve our communities at the local, state, and national levels. Zoo and wildlife veterinarians need to be involved in disaster response planning for their facilities to ensure the safety of the animals and the local community. This lecture will review the various opportunities and important skills needed for veterinarians to participate in disaster preparedness and response. The presenter has over 10 years of experience in veterinary disaster response as a Veterinary Medical Assistance Team (VMAT) and National Veterinary Response Team (NVRT) team commander, State Animal Response Team (SART) member, and in working with National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs (NASAAEP).