New University of Otago study on responder experiences to the 2017 Edgecumbe Flood now published in MDPI Animals.
Glassey, S., Liebergreen, N., Ferrere, M. R., & King, M. (2024). 1000 Animals Left Behind: Responder Experiences of the 2017 Edgecumbe Flood in New Zealand. Animals, Vol. 14. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142083
The 2017 Edgecumbe flood in New Zealand triggered the largest companion animal rescue operation in the nation’s history at that time, highlighting significant gaps in disaster preparedness for animals. This study explored the experiences of six first responders from various agencies involved in the rescue efforts, revealing several key challenges and areas for improvement in emergency response planning and execution.
Challenges During the Initial Rescue Phase
Logistical Issues: The initial rescue phase was chaotic, with responders facing significant logistical challenges. There was little pre-planning, and teams had to go from house to house to rescue animals. One responder noted, “The first day we were there we would start at one house and work our way from house to house systematically checking each for animals.”
Human and Animal Evacuation: Rescuers had to deal with both people and animals, which posed unique challenges. “People can be stubborn and animals can be stubborn. You’ve got that on both sides,” one responder said.
Species Diversity: The diversity of species requiring rescue, including dogs, cats, birds, and livestock, added complexity to the rescue efforts. For example, rescuers had to deal with frightened and aggressive dogs and large animals like cows.
Post-Rescue Challenges
Animal Identification and Tracking: Proper identification and tracking systems were crucial. A manual labelling system was used effectively, but the ideal method of microchipping was not practical due to stress and lack of resources.
Decontamination: Many animals were found in contaminated floodwater, necessitating decontamination. This was a resource-intensive process, and a triage system was used to prioritise the most urgent cases.
Deceased Animals: Managing deceased animals was emotionally taxing for responders. One responder described the process of cleaning and preparing deceased animals for their owners to view, emphasising the emotional toll it took on volunteers.
Health, Safety, and Welfare of Responders
Health Risks: Responders faced health risks from contaminated floodwater and hazardous conditions. One responder mentioned, “The water was very swift the first day. It was like being on the river.”
Fatigue and Stress: Long hours and challenging conditions led to fatigue and stress among responders. One responder noted, “As far as team welfare, working an entire day, then having a long drive was not ideal.”
Long-Term Impacts
Ongoing Animal Care: Many animals required long-term care, sometimes for months, posing challenges for both fosterers and owners. Issues arose with fostering arrangements, and some animals were returned in poor condition.
Emotional Toll: The emotional impact on both animals and owners was significant. A responder described cases of animals suffering from behavioural issues and owners struggling with the decision to surrender or euthanise their pets.
Improved Planning and Coordination
Comprehensive Emergency Response Planning: There is a need for comprehensive collaborative emergency response planning that includes animals. This should involve proper logistical planning, animal identification and tracking systems, and decontamination procedures.
Training and Support for Responders: Responders should be adequately trained and supported to handle the unique challenges of animal rescue operations. This includes training in animal handling, decontamination, and dealing with deceased animals.
Animal Welfare Considerations
Inclusive Rescue Efforts: Emergency responders should recognise the intrinsic value of all animal life and include provisions for a wide range of species in their rescue efforts. Training programmes should emphasise the importance of treating all animals with respect.
Long-Term Support
Transitional and Long-Term Housing: Emergency recovery plans should include provisions for transitional and long-term housing for animals. Support services for owners, such as counselling and financial assistance, can be crucial in the recovery phase.
Addressing Pre-Existing Issues: Ongoing efforts to improve animal welfare and strengthen animal health infrastructure in communities are essential to build resilience and preparedness for future disasters.
Coordination Issues
– There was a lack of clear leadership and coordination from MPI as the responsible agency for animal welfare during emergencies. This led to confusion among responding agencies about roles and responsibilities.
– MPI’s decision to decline requests for additional specialist rescue resources may have resulted in unnecessary animal deaths while waiting to be rescued.
– There was no pre-existing emergency plan for animal welfare held by MPI, the local authority, or civil defence emergency management group at the time of the flood.
– The absence of a standardised animal registration and tracking system, hindered efficient management of rescued animals.
– MPI’s coordination of support agencies and rescue groups was not as effective as it could have been, leading to some duplication of efforts and gaps in service provision.
In conclusion, the study highlights the complex nature of animal rescue operations during disasters and underscores the importance of comprehensive planning, training, and support for both responders and the animals they rescue. By learning from the experiences of the Edgecumbe flood, future emergency responses can be more effective and compassionate, promoting the welfare of both humans and animals. Improved coordination and leadership across all involved agencies will be crucial in addressing the identified gaps and enhancing overall emergency preparedness for animals.
Read the full article here https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/14/2083
View promo short (video) here.
Read about the community’s experience of the Edgecumbe 2017 Flood here.
Read about the lessons management observations between the Edgecumbe Flood and the Nelson Fires.
