One-day course equips volunteers to protect pets during natural disasters
Broward County Animal Care is teaming up with the Florida State Animal Response Coalition (FL SARC) to host a hands-on training designed to prepare the community to protect pets during disasters.
The one-day course, Small Animal Emergency and Disaster Sheltering – Awareness Level 1 Training, takes place Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2400 SW 42nd Street in Fort Lauderdale. Registration is open online for $35 at flsarc.org/training-classes-events.
The training is meant for volunteers and community members who want to learn how to respond when animals are impacted by hurricanes, floods, fires, or other emergencies. Participants will be taught how to rescue animals in crisis, provide care, and operate temporary emergency shelters.
“Broward County is no stranger to extreme weather events,” said Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care, in a press release. “This training gives our community tools to protect their animals and families when they need it most. Together, we can strengthen our disaster response and save lives.”
Jeremy Hillengas, program manager with FL SARC, added, “Every hurricane season reminds us how important it is to be ready—not only for ourselves, but for our pets. By training volunteers today, we’re building a stronger, safer community for tomorrow.”
For more information, visit Broward.org/Animal.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
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