What We Do

Since 2014, Putnam DART has served the animals and people of our community during times of emergency and/or disaster.

Our Mission

Disaster Animal Response Teams, DARTs, were formed In the aftermath of major hurricanes such as Andrew in 1992 (Category 5) and Katrina in 2005 (Category 4). During such events, many animals are either left behind or owners are unwilling to evacuate placing both at an increased risk. Realizing the risk to the health and safety of both humans and the animals that were left behind, Congress passed the federal Pets Evacuation and Safety Act of 2006 (PETS Act). This legislation requires preparation and planning for the evacuation of animals, in addition to humans, during times of emergency/disaster at both the state and local levels.

“The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

What We’ve Achieved