Dogs allowed: Animal hospital opens doors to Japan quake survivors and their pets

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that struck southern Japan, the Ryunosuke Animal Hospital in Kumamoto has provided a sanctuary for both human and animal victims. Recognizing the distress of pet owners unable to find shelter for their animals, the hospital transformed classrooms at its veterinary nurse training school into temporary housing.

Tomoko Takaoka, a 31-year-old factory worker, found herself in a difficult situation after the quake. Unable to reach her parents and initially denied entry to an evacuation center with her two dogs, Ku and Sheri, she spent the first night in her car. Social media led her to the Ryunosuke Animal Hospital, where she and her pets found refuge.

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During disasters it's only natural for dogs and cats to stay together with their families. But people who don't own pets don't necessarily want to be with them. They worry about fleas, odours, allergies, and noise. Pets are often viewed negatively, which is why many evacuation shelters often don’t allow people and pets to stay together.

Hospital director Ryunosuke Tokuda explained the facility's policy is rooted in the experience of the devastating 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. "During disasters it's only natural for dogs and cats to stay together with their families," he stated. He acknowledged that non-pet owners might have concerns about fleas, odors, allergies, and noise, which often leads to pets being excluded from standard evacuation shelters.

Takaoka, clutching her dogs in a tent at the hospital, expressed her relief at being able to stay with her pets, whom she considers family. "They're just like family to me. I'd like to stay with them as much as possible," she said. The hospital's proactive approach ensures that families, in the broadest sense, can remain together during times of crisis, offering comfort and stability amidst devastation.

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They're just like family to me. I'd like to stay with them as much as possible.