In times of conflict and disaster, animals often become a forgotten collateral damage. While the human beings affected by these events are rightly given aid, support, and refuge, animals are left to fend for themselves. Many rescue systems do not allow people to evacuate with their pets. After evacuation, people are not allowed to return to evacuate their pets. Pet owners must face the impossible decision to stay and risk the lives of themselves and their pets, or evacuate and abandon their pets.  According to a study conducted in 2021 by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA):

“More than one in five pet owners have evacuated their homes due to a disaster or emergency and nearly half left at least one pet behind when they evacuated. [...] Only 46 percent of pet owners have a disaster preparedness plan in place” (ASPCA, 2021)

Animal rescuers work tirelessly to render aid to these companion animals, though just as with human aid, resources and manpower are constantly stretched to the absolute limit. While large organizations do the vital work of collaborating with legislators to address the glaring gaps in policy regarding animal evacuation, individuals must come together to address the impacts of current and future disasters on pets and pet owners in their own communities and beyond. 

In a time dominated by technology and digital connectivity, the Internet can be a useful tool for knowledge exchange and instant communication. However, it is easy to hide behind our screens and become caught in the endless scroll. quiet collateral positions itself at the intersection of the digital world and the physical world by combining the accessibility of an online platform with the power of face-to-face interaction. While no one person or action can prevent all disasters or save every animal, each small action we take collectively builds to something bigger. 

This is Chester, my rescue cat. I am driven by my love for Chester and the lengths I would go to in order to ensure his health, safety, and enrichment. I know many other pet owners and animal rescuers feel the exact same way for their furry wards. Quiet collateral is a manifestation of this love and care.