National animal emergency response program is under development in Canada

Several organizations are working together to implement a national animal emergency response program in Canada. The initiative, a collaboration between Mars, Inc and Humane Canada, aims to improve the preparedness and capabilities for Humane Societies, Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCAs), and other animal welfare organizations across the country during emergencies and disaster relief efforts.

Through the program, Mars and Humane Canada hope to create a unified and integrated response network between animal care providers and first responders to make sure pets have access to essential care and protection during emergencies, the organizations said in a joint news release.¹ The program will also provide first responders with training on dealing with emergency scenarios.

"Humane Canada is proud to collaborate with Mars to build a national framework that strengthens how animals are protected during emergencies," Kathy Duncan, director of National Programs at Humane Canada, said in the news release.¹ "Every year, our member humane societies and SPCAs respond to wildfires, floods, and other crises, often working alongside first responders under difficult conditions. This program will give them the tools, training, and coordination they need to act faster and more effectively, so animals and their families receive the care and support they deserve when disaster strikes."

Mars and Humane Canada are also pushing for animals to be included in national and provincial emergency response plans, arguing that the implementation is essential to ensure pets receive adequate care when emergencies occur. Without the program, approximately 16 million cats and dogs throughout Canada² could be left vulnerable during emergencies, especially amid a rise in wildfires and other natural disasters.

"This program marks a meaningful milestone for pets and pet parents in Canada,” Romain Dumas, general manager at Mars Pet Nutrition Canada, said in the release.¹ “With a rise in natural disasters, specifically wildfires within Canada, there has never been a more critical time for ensuring pets are responsibly cared for and supported during emergencies.”

VCA Canada and Royal Canin Canada will also be assisting in the development and maintenance of the program, as subsidiaries of Mars. "Royal Canin Canada is proud to tangibly support emergency response efforts in partnership with Humane Canada," Rob Lunn, general manager of Royal Canin Canada, said in the release.¹ "From assisting veterinarians and technicians as boots on the ground to both a financial and nutritional investment, we're excited to do our part to provide assistance for cats and dogs in need across Canada."

VCA Canada noted that a national support system and education for shelter partners, first responders, and hospital teams will have a “meaningful and measurable impact” when it comes to supporting pets and their caregivers in times of emergencies.

References

1. Mars and Humane Canada team up to implement national animal emergency response program in Canada. News release. Vicar Operating, Inc. November 19, 2025. Accessed November 20, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mars-and-humane-canada-team-up-to-implement-national-animal-emergency-response-program-in-canada-813634396.html
2. State of the Pet Homelessness Project latest report. State of the Pet Homelessness Project. Accessed November 20, 2025. https://www.stateofpethomelessness.com/latest-report/?Country=Canada