After Hurricane Katrina, we learned about countless people who refused to leave their pets behind in pursuit of their own safety. As a result, the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act was signed in 2006 to ensure that animals are included in local and state emergency plans.

So it should come as no surprise that recent research found that 58 percent of people would put their life on the line for a pet. The study, presented at the Annual Emergency Service Conference in New Zealand, confirms how pet lovers feel about their four-legged family members.

Every now and then the news will cover stories of pet lovers who rush into burning buildings or jump into freezing rivers to rescue their beloved furry family members. Of course I can’t imagine ever leaving my pups behind, and I would like to say I’d have the same reaction as these heroic people, but I’ve never been in an emergency situation before. I am glad, however, that legislation like PETS has been passed to minimize the difficult choices pet lovers must make in times of crisis.

Would you risk your life for your pup?