In the wake of recent natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina, and concerns about pandemics, such as Avian Influenza, many communities are evaluating their plans for emergency response.

Accounts by people who were reluctant to leave their pets behind during evacuation orders and images of mass killing of farm animals during depopulation protocols illustrate the need for thoughtful attention to animals during times of crisis.

The objectives of this symposium are (1) to raise awareness about how animals, and the people who care for them, are affected during pandemics and natural disasters, and (2) to share knowledge about how animal welfare may be addressed during these situations.

The symposium will provide presentations, discussions and proceedings that may be used as a framework document for policy makers and stakeholders to address animal welfare within emergency response plans at local, national and international levels.