It goes without saying that wildfires can be quite dangerous. The unpredictability of where the fire is moving can put your whole family at risk – especially pets. When an emergency happens, your pets are relying on you for safety. These serious conditions might cause the pet to hide. Or, some people overlook their pets in the rush to evacuate without much notice.
The most important thing that you can do to protect furry family members is to have a plan in place. Then, if an emergency happens, you will be able to act quickly to ensure that the important details are never overlooked.
Preparing Ahead of Time for a Wildfire
If you live in an area that is prone to wildfires, then make sure that you have an emergency kit put together. This way, you will be able to evacuate quickly if anything happens and you need to get out fast. Your pet emergency kit should include:
- Food
- Water
- Medications
- Vaccination records
- Pet carrier
- Comfort items (such as a toy or blanket)
It’s also helpful to ensure that your pet is always wearing a collar with ID tags. Or, better yet, have your pet microchipped so they can be identified and reunited in the unfortunate case that they are separated from your family.
Make sure that your evacuation plan includes pet-friendly locations where you can go during the evacuation. Consider staying with family and friends, or look for pet-friendly hotels and shelters.
What To Do When a Wildfire is Threatening Your Home
In the moment of an emergency, it can be hard to think clearly. Follow these best practices in the moment to protect your family members and pets:
- Early Evacuation: Even though you want to stay at home, your risk increases if you stay for too long. Don’t wait for mandatory evacuation. Instead, leave early so that you have more time to gather your personal items and get away. Early evacuation will help you avoid traffic issues.
- Keep Your Pet Close: Make sure that your pet is always leashed or in a carrier. This practical step reduces the risk of the animal running away due to stress.
- Avoid Smoke: If there is a lot of smoke outside, then it’s best to keep your pet inside to limit the exposure. Indoor air quality is safer for both people and animals. Run an air filter at home to remove particles and ash from the air.
- Stay Calm: Remember that your pet can sense your stress levels. Try to remain calm so that you can help your pet stay relaxed. Maintain routines whenever possible, including feeding times and bedtime.
Prioritizing Pet Safety Before, During, and After a Wildfire
As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure that your pet is receiving the care and support that it deserves. As you are going home again, check around your property for lingering hotspots or debris that could injure your pet.
Also, watch your furry family members to see if there are any signs of stress or illness. If anything seems wrong, then visit the veterinarian as soon as possible.
While wildfires are stressful and dangerous, these tips will ensure that you are maintaining safety for your pets during the emergency.
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Written by Becki Andrus in partnership with wholesale aluminum fencing from Aluminum Fences Direct.
