The prefectural government says some evacuees were unable to take their pets with them to shelters, so stayed in their homes where conditions may have been dangerous. Others slept in their cars to be with their pets.
As a gesture of support, the veterinary association launched a program from January 15 to care for such pets at 46 veterinary hospitals in the prefecture, free of charge for one month.
Dogs, cats, rabbits, and small birds are eligible. People who wish to leave their animals with vets should call the Noto Peninsula Earthquake Animal Headquarters of the Prefectural Veterinary Medical Association, and provide details.
The phone number for the task force is 076-213-5788.
The Prefectural Pharmaceutical Hygiene Division, which proposed the initiative, says, "Looking after the pets of those affected by the disaster will help protect the evacuees own lives and health. We hope people in need of pet care take advantage of this service."