The Connecticut State Animal Response Team

A brief history of Connecticut SART:

Connecticut SART is modeled after the North Carolina State Animal Response Team, which arose in the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Currently a number of states are developing SART or similar programs, thus helping to create a national standard for animal emergency programs throughout the USA.

In August, 2005, 130 representatives from over 90 government agencies and non-governmental organizations gathered in West Hartford for two days of presentations and strategic planning, lead by members of the North Carolina State Animal Response Team and with financial support from the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association and PetSmart Charities. The outcome of that conference was a new SART program for Connecticut, CTSART.

Goals

To facilitate a prompt, effective response to any animal emergency in the State of Connecticut
To decrease the health and safety threat to humans and animals
To minimize the economic impact of animal issues in emergencies
To assist in preventing and/or limiting the spread of animal disease during emergencies

Connecticut SART Steering Committee Founding Representation:

Capitol Region Emergency Planning Committee
Connecticut Department of Agriculture
Connecticut Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security
Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association
United States Department of Agriculture
University of Connecticut

Connecticut SART contact information:

Arnold L. Goldman DVM, MS; Executive Director, Connecticut SART
Connecticut Veterinary Medical Foundation
ctsart@ctvet.org