Disaster_Guy

More articles about specific FF's: http://larchmont.patch.com/articles/female-firefighter-in-mamaroneck-village-is-no-damsel-in-distress#photo-9470810 http://www.thedailycortlandt.com/neighbors/cortlandt-women-firefighters-rare-asset

http://www.lohud.com...ne-their-skills (see for pictures) http://www.thedailyp...earn-new-skills (see for pictures)

I don't think that there is a federal mandate for shelters to accept pets. The American Red Cross has a Federal Mandate from Congress as well as an agreement with FEMA that the Red Cross will provide the shelters, and I know that Red Cross shelter do not accept pets (only service animals). Can you try to find a link to the mandate you are referring to? In my experience and knowledge, shelters refer the pet owners to other agencies, such as WesCART or local pet shelters (like the Humane Society).

While I most certainly am not speaking on behalf of WesCART, my impression is that their main disaster response action is the sheltering of pets, although I'm quite sure that they are trained in animal technical rescue as well.

That's correct, WC-DES manages the Westchester County Animal Response Team (WesCART). They are a active volunteer group that "responds to emergencies that require animal rescue, evacuation, veterinary disaster care, and the sheltering of pets during a major disaster. WesCART is active in educating the public concerning disaster preparedness and pets." In English, when a disaster strikes and the need for pet sheltering or care arises, this group is the one to call. Since pets are not allowed into shelters, there really is a huge need for a specialized group like this to provide care for animals during disasters. I know for a fact that my local CERT has WesCART as their POC if a client arrives with pets and they can't find anywhere else to put them. At the Fire Training Center there is a WesCART trailer with their equipment. Check out the Facebook Page to see pictures of them in action. I don't really know much more about them because I am not a member, just a supporter. For anyone who is interested, they are having a meeting tomorrow: WesCART General Membership Meeting Date: 9/22/2011 Time: 7 PM Room #3 Location: Westchester County DES 4 Dana Rd. Valhalla NY 10595 Parking for The Westchester County Department of Emergency Services is located in the visitor lot at 35 Walker Road. Please park in the upper lot and proceed down the stairs to the rear entrance of the building. If anyone looking for more information they can contact them at the links below: http://emergencyserv...l-response-team, http://www.westchest...ems/WesCART.htm, http://www.facebook....180390625335395.