Preparing your pets for wildfire season should start today. I know, I know, it’s not a real season, but it’s real! These events used to come in the spring and Fall, now they can happen year-round.
Wildfires are unplanned and can be uncontrolled fires that occur in rangelands, grasslands or forests. They can create their own weather systems and spread quickly with strong winds.
When you have pets, you should evacuate at the first warning. Don’t wait until it’s mandatory.
I can personally refer back to the Paradise fire in California, when people were on their way to work or school and could not return home to retrieve their pets or belongings because the fire came roaring in so quickly. Pet Evac Pak delivered 5 loads of pet food and supplies to support relief efforts. We witnessed too many pets that had been left behind, and we don’t know how many perished in the fire.
The first 2 trips we made were with our pickup truck, and the last three loads were with a full, large U-Haul truck. Thanks to all the donations we received from our community.
The need is always great during devastating wildfires, but it’s important to coordinate with the local animal control so you know what is needed.
Here are some lessons we learned from this event
Make a Plan
- Make an emergency plan that includes your pets! This should include a place to meet if you’re separated. If you have to get out quickly, make sure everyone in your house knows the plan and has a task to help you evacuate safely.
- Establish a buddy system with a local friend or neighbour who can get you pets if you’re not home. Make sure they know where your pet’s emergency kit is.
It’s important to have an emergency kit for your pet, which can be stored in a backpack, duffel bag, or suitcase. Here’s what to include:
- 72-Hour Supply of Food and Water
- Two Travel Bowls
- Slip Lead or Collar and Leash (Veterinarians and rescues prefer a slip lead, as it can be put on your pet quickly and prevents escape when pulled tight.)
- Five Days’ Worth of Medication
- Vaccination Records
- Waterproof Pouch (For storing important documents and medications.)
- Waste Disposal Supplies: poo bags (Include a litter box with litter and scoop for cats.)
- Basic First Aid Supplies (Ensure they are labelled safe for pets.)
- LED Night Light (Useful in case evacuation occurs at night.)
- ID Card (This card should include your pet’s microchip number, name, and other identifying information, in case they need to go to a shelter.)
- Contact List (Have phone numbers for a local veterinarian, Animal Control, and local hotels that accept pets.)
- Photo of You with Your Pet (This can assist in identification. Make sure to highlight any identifiable markings your pet has.
Other items:
- Crates or carriers to keep them safe, along with blankets or bedding with your smell, can help keep them calm.
By making a plan now and preparing this kit, you can ensure your pet’s safety and comfort in case of an emergency.
There are a few other things you can do now to be prepared.
Preparing your pet to evacuate
- Crate training your pet before an evacuation or emergency will reduce your pet’s stress.
- Microchipping your pet can help you be reunited with your pet if you are separated.
- Make sure they are comfortable going for car rides.
- Socialising them now and teaching them how to walk on a leash can be a game-changer if you have to go to a shelter.
Pet Evac Pak is here to help you with all your pet’s safety needs, from premium emergency kits to our build your own custom kit page.
