Suginami Ward and Risshisha Educational Corporation Sign Agreement on Support for Pet Owners and Companion Animals During Disasters

On Tuesday, August 25, Japan School of Animal Sciences (hereinafter: the school), operated by Risshisha Educational Corporation (headquartered in Sumida Ward, Tokyo), signed an agreement with Suginami Ward titled 'Agreement on Support Activities for Companion Animals and Their Owners During Disasters' (hereinafter: the agreement).

The agreement aims to establish a safe and reassuring evacuation environment for pet owners and their animals during disasters, thereby contributing to enhanced local disaster resilience.

Agreement Overview

### Agreement Title

Agreement on Support Activities for Companion Animals and Their Owners During Disasters

### Background and Purpose of the Agreement

In large-scale disasters, enabling 'co-evacuation'—where pets and owners live together in evacuation shelters—has been challenging due to hygiene concerns and allergies.

Given this context, the agreement was established to provide designated spaces for co-evacuation, ensuring appropriate support for pet owners and their animals.

Expected Collaboration Activities

- Provision of co-evacuation facilities for pet owners and their animals - Supply of essential materials and medical equipment for animal care - Public awareness and education on disaster preparedness for animals - Collaboration with the Tokyo Veterinary Medical Association, Suginami Branch

Co-evacuation Facility Location

Risshisha Educational Corporation, Japan School of Animal Sciences

(4-6-8 Koenji-Minami, Suginami City, Tokyo)

Difference Between 'Co-evacuation' and 'Evacuation with Pets'

'Evacuation with Pets' refers to safely evacuating alongside pets to a shelter.

In contrast, 'Co-evacuation' means that pet owners care for and manage their animals within the same space or facility at the evacuation center.

While co-evacuation has been difficult due to hygiene and allergy concerns, the use of the school's facilities now makes it feasible within Suginami Ward.

Message from Risshisha Educational Corporation

Japan School of Animal Sciences has carried out its educational mission for 20 years, supported by the residents of Suginami Ward.

This agreement embodies the school’s educational philosophy of 'building a society where people and pets can live together safely and securely,' reflecting gratitude to the local community.

The school will continue to cultivate professionals with specialized animal knowledge and contribute to strengthening regional disaster preparedness.

Risshisha’s Disaster-Related Initiatives

- November 2024: Signed agreement with Sumida Ward on support for companion animals and owners during disasters - November 2025: Tripartite agreement with Nerima Ward and Nerima Veterinary Medical Association on pet disaster preparedness - March 2026: Agreement with Aichi Prefecture on support for pet co-evacuation during disasters - April 2026: Agreement with Yokohama City on support for companion animals and owners during disasters - June 2026: Agreement with Osaka City on accepting stranded commuters during disasters

Risshisha Educational Corporation will continue to strengthen collaboration with local communities and enhance its disaster support systems.

Contact Information

Risshisha Educational Corporation Public Relations Department 03-3624-5403 / kouhou@all-japan.ac.jp