The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is a key participant in emergency response within the city of Des Moines, Polk County, and throughout Iowa.
The ARL is prepared to provide immediate, expert support to area communities, citizens, and pets when a situation escalates to the point that it is beyond the capabilities of local resources. These situations may range from large-scale animal cases to natural disasters to other emergencies such as apartment fires.
Trained disaster responders
The ARL has a core team of trained disaster responders who are ready to come to the aid of animals around the state, whether assisting in the field with rescue operations, helping with emergency sheltering, or providing in-shelter support at the ARL so that key staff members with special expertise can assist with an emergency.
|
 |
Specialized Rescue Vehicles
The ARL has a fleet of rescue vehicles, including an enclosed cargo trailer and a boat for water rescues, as well as specialized animal rescue equipment and other supplies on hand to provide assistance over a wide spectrum of animal emergencies.
Rescuing animals in the field, transporting animals to safety, providing temporary emergency housing, and either returning animals to their original homes or finding them new homes are some of the activities that are supported through these efforts.
Equipped to effectively respond to all types of statewide emergencies, the ARL is looked to by local and state authorities as a valued resource when animals are impacted. When animals are in need, the ARL stands ready to help.
|
|
Requesting help in disasters
If you need help with a disaster-related situation, please contact your district's
Emergency Manager. The ARL works alongside emergency management to assist when needed.
Emergency preparedness
For more information on preparing your pets for when disaster strikes, please see this resource.