U.1 General

Pursuant to EMCPA Section 7.0.2., provincial emergency orders can include evacuation of animals under a declared provincial emergency.

Any emergency that affects humans may affect their animals whether these are raised for foodstuff production, kept as companion or service animals, or for other purposes, such as in zoos.

U.2 Responsibility

Provisions for the protection and care of animals should be included in public awareness and education materials in advance of a nuclear emergency.

Municipal emergency response plans for nuclear emergencies shall make provisions for the protection and care of all animals, including those left behind during an evacuation.

Designated municipalities should consult with the following for assistance in developing plans for the protection and care of animals:

  1. OMAFA (provincial lead on farm animal disease)
  2. the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for issues pertaining to wildlife
  3. Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General (Mandate for Animal Welfare in Ontario)

During a nuclear or radiological emergency, the PEOC should coordinate assistance for the protection and care of animals with the following, as appropriate:

  1. Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General (mandate for Animal Welfare in Ontario)
  2. Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA)
  3. OMAFA (provincial lead on farm animal disease)
  4. MNR (for issues pertaining to wildlife).