Animal Emergency Management Foundations : A Free Introductory Webinar

Whether you're an emergency responder, planner, community leader, veterinary professional, animal welfare organisation, or simply someone who cares about animals in disasters, this free 60-minute webinar will help you understand the fundamentals of animal emergency management.

This emerging field has gained momentum, especially with the release of new national handbooks and guidance. Yet, many people still don't know where to start. This session offers a no-pressure opportunity to explore the key concepts, unpack the complexity, and get a taste of the Animal Emergency Management (AEM) Masterclass Series — all at no cost.

What We’ll Cover:

In this introductory session, you’ll learn:

• What animal emergency management is (and isn’t)
• Why animals matter in emergency planning and decision-making
• Common myths and assumptions that get in the way
• The changing landscape: new expectations, new guidance (including the Planning for Animals Handbook)
• The role of people: custodians, communities, responders, and systems
• Where to start: identifying your place in the puzzle
• What to expect from the AEM Masterclass Series if you want to go further

Who It's For:

This webinar is ideal for:

• Local, regional, State and National government emergency managers and planners
• Animal welfare organisations and veterinary professionals
• Rural professionals
• Policy advisors, researchers, and students
• Anyone interested in how animal issues intersect with emergency management and community resilience

Why This Matters:

In times of crisis, animals often fall through the cracks, not because people don’t care, but because the systems haven’t caught up. Animal emergency management isn’t just about pets or livestock; it’s about people, places, and the decisions we make under pressure.

This is your chance to explore this space with one of the leading voices in the field — Dr. Hayley Squance, who brings together deep frontline experience, systems thinking, and practical solutions.