May is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Month
As Colorado heads into spring, one thing is already clear: conditions are setting the stage for a challenging wildfire season. Ongoing drought across much of the state, combined with dry fuels and warming temperatures, increases the likelihood of earlier, more active fires.
For veterinary professionals, this isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s a call to prepare.
Why This Matters to Veterinary Professionals
When disasters strike, veterinary teams play a critical role—not just in treating injuries, but in:
- Supporting animal evacuation and sheltering efforts
- Assisting with public safety and emergency response coordination
- Helping prevent disease spread in displaced animal populations
- Providing trusted guidance to clients navigating emergencies with their pets and livestock
In recent years, Colorado has seen firsthand how quickly wildfires and other disasters can impact both animals and the people who care for them. Preparation at the community level can make a measurable difference in outcomes.
A Meaningful Way to Get Involved
If you’ve been looking for a way to extend your impact beyond the clinic, the Front Range Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps (FRVMRC) offers a direct path to do just that.
FRVMRC brings together veterinarians, veterinary technicians, animal health professionals, and community members to support emergency preparedness and disaster response across Colorado’s Front Range.
Volunteers contribute to efforts including:
- Wildfire and flood response
- Animal evacuation and temporary sheltering
- Disease outbreak preparedness
- Community education through Prep-Pet Clinics and first responder trainings
No prior disaster experience is required—training and support are provided.
Upcoming Training Opportunities
Spring is an ideal time to get trained and ready ahead of peak fire season. Upcoming opportunities include:
- April 25 – Volunteer Capacity Building Workshop (hosted by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment)
- May 3 – Large-Scale Animal Evacuation Exercise (hosted by Jefferson County)
Note: Participation requires registration with FRVMRC unit.
Take the First Step
Whether you’re ready to deploy in an emergency or prefer to support planning, logistics, or community education, there is a role for you.
Getting involved is straightforward:
- Register through the Colorado Volunteer Mobilizer (CVM)
- Sign up as an interested volunteer with the Front Range Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps
- Explore roles that align with your skills and availability
Looking Ahead
As we recognize National Animal Disaster Preparedness Month this May, consider how your skills could strengthen Colorado’s readiness—not just for this fire season, but for future emergencies.
Prepared communities start with prepared professionals.
And when animals and people need help most, having trained veterinary volunteers in place can make all the difference.