In his TEDxSaltLakeCity talk, Kimo Pokini discusses the importance of keeping pets and people together in times of crisis. He emphasizes the strong bond between humans and their furry companions, and the need to prioritize their well-being during difficult situations.
Pokini shares his personal experience of being forced to evacuate his home due to a natural disaster, and the struggle of leaving his pets behind. This experience motivated him to come up with a plan to ensure that pets are not separated from their owners during emergencies.
He provides practical tips on how pet owners can prepare for emergencies, including creating a pet emergency kit, making arrangements with friends or family members to care for pets if needed, and ensuring that pets are properly identified with tags or microchips.
Overall, Pokini’s talk emphasizes the importance of including pets in emergency preparedness plans, and highlights the strong emotional connection between pets and their owners. Keeping pets and people together in times of crisis not only ensures the safety and well-being of the animals, but also provides comfort and support to their human companions.
Watch the video by TEDxTalks
Author Video Description
Much time and effort goes into animal rescue each year, but Kimo Pokini asserts that the future of animal welfare depends on pet retention. He shares an approach that recognizes the wellbeing of pets and their people is deeply connected, making caring for both the key to relieving pressure on shelters and rescues as well as building a more compassionate, resilient society.
Kimo Pokini is a co-founder of Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering, a nonprofit that aims to keep pets and people together in times of crisis. His journey is depicted in the award-winning film “Kimo and Jazz”, and he has appeared on podcasts with NPR and Dog Save the People. Kimo is currently a member of AARP-Utah’s Executive Council. Alongside his husband Stanley, they provide full-time caregiving for their elderly parents and their rescue dog, Kubo.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
About TEDxTalks
TEDx is an international community that organizes TED-style events anywhere and everywhere — celebrating locally-driven ideas and elevating them to a global stage. TEDx events are produced independently of TED conferences, each event curates speakers on their own, but based on TED’s format and rules.
Video “How to keep pets and people together in times of crisis | Kimo Pokini | TEDxSaltLakeCity” was uploaded on 01/24/2025 to Youtube Channel TEDx Talks