They say the change was motivated by worries that some people were putting themselves at risk by staying in unsound homes or cars, because they were reluctant to leave their cats and dogs behind.
On January 21, the prefecture opened a trailer for pets at the Ishikawa Sports Center in Kanazawa City, which is serving as a shelter for pregnant women and the elderly.
Pet food and other basics are available free of charge, and each animal has its own cage.
The prefecture plans to open four trailers by the end of the month ― two each for cats and dogs ― with space for 50 animals in total.
"Allowing people to spend time with their pets in peace can prevent disaster-related deaths," said one prefectural official.
