To Protect Your Valuable Pets from the Nankai Trough Earthquake Experts explain the difference between “evacuation with pets” and “evacuation with pets

New Approach to “Phase-Free Disaster Prevention

Another approach to disaster prevention that has been gaining attention in recent years is “phase-free disaster prevention. This concept does not distinguish between disasters and normal times, but rather incorporates disaster preparedness (food, water, and daily commodities) into daily life.

It is said that the average household stores two weeks’ worth of food on a daily basis, and the same amount should be stored for pet supplies. Along with stockpiling water and food, it is also important to have your pet microchipped as a measure against strays.

In the event of a disaster, many pets may escape due to some trigger, such as earthquake tremors or loud noises. Since individual information is registered on the microchip, there is a high possibility that the owner can be found if the pet is later protected. Even if the name is written on a collar or harness, it may come off during an escape, so a chip implanted in the body provides peace of mind.”

In the current situation in Japan, not only the Nankai Trough earthquake, but any major disaster could occur anywhere at any time.

In addition to preparing yourself for the possibility of becoming a victim of a disaster at any time, knowing the current situation of evacuation centers in Japan will give you the knowledge to make calm decisions.

I saw a video of a wildfire that occurred in Los Angeles (U.S.A.) in January of this year and an evacuation shelter. I saw a large dog on a leash walking alongside many evacuees with its owner. In the U.S., problems have surfaced many times in the past regarding how to evacuate with pets, and each time, legislation has been enacted and a system has been put in place. Thanks to such efforts, “evacuation with pets” is now accepted as a normal practice in the U.S. Unfortunately, Japan is now in a situation where pets are not always evacuated in the event of a disaster.

Unfortunately, Japan’s response and attitude toward pets in the event of a disaster is not as good as in other countries. I hope that “evacuation with pets” will continue to be encouraged and that “evacuation with pets” will become more acceptable.

There is a limit to the efforts of pet owners alone to protect their beloved pets. We hope for further progress, including the understanding of those around us and the cooperation of the government.