Typhoon Bavi Approaches: New Taipei City Animal Shelters Take Proactive Measures to Protect Beloved Pets

With Typhoon Bavi drawing closer, the New Taipei City Government's Animal Protection and Disease Control Section has fully mobilized its typhoon preparedness efforts. In addition to tree pruning, drain cleaning, and reinforcing roofs and windows, the department has established rotating duty schedules to ensure staff can be deployed immediately during emergencies, safeguarding the animals at all animal shelters. Should the city's disaster response center escalate to Level 1 activation, the Animal Protection Section will promptly join the emergency operations, ensuring all animals remain safe throughout the typhoon.

Some animal shelters in New Taipei City are located in mountainous areas. Before the typhoon arrives, staff have conducted comprehensive inspections of the premises, trimming overgrown branches and clearing leaves and debris from drainage ditches to reduce the risk of tree collapse and flooding caused by heavy rain and strong winds. Doors, fences, and all facilities have been reinforced, and vehicles and outdoor items have been securely relocated to prevent wind damage.

During the typhoon, staff will be stationed at each animal shelter on a 24-hour rotating basis, continuously monitoring site conditions and responding immediately to any incidents. This ensures that all sheltered animals receive proper care and both animals and personnel remain safe.

The Banqiao Animal Shelter, located at Bancity Road, Huadong Village, Banqiao District, is currently undergoing construction for a cat-friendly environment. Ahead of the typhoon, all typhoon preparedness measures have been completed. Construction fences, support structures, and other on-site facilities have been reinforced. The shelter has also fully inspected and strengthened enclosure nets and sheds to minimize risks from strong winds and heavy rain. Drainage ditches and systems have been cleaned to ensure smooth water flow and prevent flooding that could affect both construction and animal housing.

Prior to the typhoon, staff have continuously inspected construction zones and facility conditions. During the storm, monitoring will be intensified based on weather conditions to ensure immediate response. The shelter is committed to maintaining construction safety and animal welfare, preventing any disaster-related incidents.

The New Taipei City Animal Protection Section emphasizes that to enhance disaster resilience at animal shelters, annual budgets are allocated for building repairs and ongoing improvements to shelter safety. All shelters complete their typhoon preparations in advance to minimize typhoon impacts. Additionally, emergency staffing and response plans are in place to monitor conditions and provide necessary care to sheltered animals, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the storm.