top of page

What is a Community Animal Response Team (CART)?

Dr. Claudia Sonder, DVM

By: Dr. Claudia Sonder, DVM


People often ask me, “What is a Community Animal Response Team, or CART?”


My answer often starts with a few follow-up questions:

  • Do you have pets at home?

  • Do you like working with animals?

  • If so, what types of animals?


Additionally, I’ll ask: Have you ever had to evacuate during a disaster?


A white horse grazing hay

I’d like for you to imagine a scenario where you couldn’t get home during an emergency—what would happen to your animals? Are they prepared to be evacuated?


Joining a local CART is a rewarding way to gain valuable experience working with animals while also serving your community during emergencies or disasters. CART volunteers receive life-saving training that benefits both themselves and their pets.




There are numerous volunteer roles within a CART to fit people of all backgrounds and skill levels:

  • Providing care for animals in temporary shelters

  • Serving on an animal assistance hotline

  • Dispatching response teams from a command center

  • Serving as a field radio communicator

  • Assisting animals left behind or evacuating animals in distress


Many administrative roles can even be performed from home during emergencies, making it possible for more people to get involved in vital ways.


CARTs are integrated into the county’s emergency plans and collaborate closely with animal control officers, first responders, and emergency managers to safely address animal-related needs in crises.


Whether training or deployed in the field, CART volunteers work together to problem-solve, develop their skills, and expand their knowledge.


Join a CART today! To find a list of active CARTs in California, visit: www.calcarts.org.

21 views

Recent Posts

See All

© 2025 California Community Animal Response Teams

bottom of page