Poweshiek and Jasper Counties receive donation of AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailer

AKC Reunite, the largest non-profit pet identification and recovery service provider in the United States, is pleased to announce the donation of its 110th AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailer to Newton, IA for Poweshiek County and Jasper County, the first donated trailer for the state of Iowa. This life-saving equipment will be available to dispatch to any local disaster scene that needs assistance sheltering pets. This trailer was delivered on February 27th and will assist Poweshiek County Emergency Management & Jasper County Emergency Management in helping community pets that may become displaced in an emergency.

“We are very happy to donate this trailer in Iowa,” said Tom Sharp, President & CEO of AKC Reunite. “Just last year the area experienced such severe weather, the Governor declared a disaster. Now the local emergency management will have the materials they need when disaster strikes.”

AKC Pet Disaster Relief is a nationwide program sponsored by AKC Reunite, the country’s largest non-profit microchip identification and recovery service. AKC Reunite partners with AKC® Dog Clubs and pet lovers across the country to make these donations a reality. The Poweshiek & Jasper County trailer was made possible by the Central Iowa Kennel Club, Poweshiek County Alliance and Grinnell College.

“The Central Iowa Kennel Club is proud to partner with AKC Reunite, Poweshiek and Jasper County Emergency Management Agencies, and Grinnell College to bring to Iowa our first AKC Reunite Pet Disaster Relief Trailer,” said Kristina DeLisi, President of the Central Iowa Kennel Club. “Iowa regularly experiences tornados and other severe weather that can devastate whole communities. This trailer will be a resource for all 99 counties to keep pets safe during these emergencies, as well as reuniting them with their owners. We would like to sincerely thank AKC Reunite and all of our partners for making this possible.”

The equipment in the AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailers helps to create a safe, temporary home-base for at least 65 pets during the first 72 hours after a disaster is declared. The trailers house and deliver essential animal care items including crates and carriers, AKC Reunite microchips and an AKC Reunite universal microchip scanner, bowls, collars and leashes as well as fans, lighting and a generator, cleaning supplies and maintenance items. These supplies can be used as co-location shelters, where people can evacuate with their pets, as well as emergency animal shelters for displaced animals.

“This new trailer fills a resource gap that we have known existed for some time, and we are excited that this is the first trailer of its kind in Iowa,” said Brian Paul, Coordinator at Poweshiek County Emergency Management. “It will undoubtedly be a valuable resource to our two counties and we look forward to the partnerships and increased resiliency it creates.”

“This thoughtful contribution will undoubtedly enhance our community’s capacity to care for beloved animal companions during emergencies,” said Jamey Robinson, EMA Director at Jasper County Emergency Management. “As we prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents, including our four-legged friends, this trailer is a valuable asset that aligns perfectly with our commitment to comprehensive disaster preparedness. The American Kennel Club’s support is a shining example of collaboration between organizations dedicated to the welfare of both humans and their cherished pets. Together, we are building a resilient community that extends its protective embrace to every member, ensuring that no pet is left behind in times of crisis.”

Learn more about how to get involved in AKC Pet Disaster Relief at www.akcreunite.org/relief.