Voice for the Voiceless: Amplifying Animal Issues in Disaster Management and Media

How do the media portray companion animals, commonly known as pets, and their guardians during natural disasters? This study explores the crucial role media has played in shaping the public’s understanding of animal-related issues during the wildfires that swept through Nova Scotia, Canada, in May and June 2023. This case study examines how various platforms—from Twitter to government websites and local news outlets—covered the challenges faced by animals and their guardians during this crisis. By analyzing a wide range of sources, the study uncovers practical examples of how people interacted with animals during the wildfires. These interactions include companion animal guardians caring for their pets, farmers protecting their livestock, and efforts to safeguard local wildlife. The research reveals how these human–animal bonds contributed to mutual resilience in the face of disaster. To date, there are currently no standard guidelines for media coverage of animals affected by disasters. This study fills that gap, offering valuable insights into the often overlooked area of human–animal relationships during wildfires, i.e., a specialized but important aspect of disaster research.