Disaster Planning: An integral part of any preventive plan is a disaster management and recovery protocol to reduce interruption of service, minimize financial losses and prevent animal injury, illness and death. Disasters include weather related events, man-made disasters, and pandemics. Disaster planning and management plans are based on the All-Hazards approach that can help mitigate the impact of any disaster. The Institute for Business and Home Safety estimates 25% of small businesses never re-open following a major disaster. Having a plan in place enables preparedness and an efficient, effective response during a time when normal resources are limited or unavailable. This will minimize loss of animal life, allow continued care of animals, and enable employees and owners to focus on the immediate needs of their families. Disaster planning will also reduce the burden on local emergency resources and allow your business to be a resource for the community during a time of need. An emergency plan won’t prevent a disaster, but it will provide re-assurance to clients, boarders, and your staff that animals under your care will receive every benefit of adequate disaster preparation.