When wildfires strike, it is crucial that you and your family stay safe – and that includes your pets. By having a plan and practicing it, you can be prepared to act at a moment’s notice should a wildfire come your way or if you need to evacuate.
Preparedness
- Microchip pets or put a tag on their collar with your name, address and cell phone number so they may be returned quickly in case you are separated from your pets. Be sure that any microchip information is up to date.
- Have a plan already established on which family member is responsible for your pet’s needs.
- Create a disaster preparedness kit for your pets, including a First Aid kit, leashes, and pets’ carrying cases, bowls, sanitation materials, medications, chew toy, minimum 3 days, ideally 7-10 days of food, medications, water, your veterinarian’s contact information, and a photo of your pet.
- Portable carriers should be ready to go at a moment’s notice. Practice loading cats and dogs into pet carriers before you have to.
When Wildfires Strike
- Evacuate your family and pets as early as you can and follow local officials’ evacuation recommendations.
- Remember to take your pet preparedness kit if you evacuate.
- If you evacuate with your pet, put them in a carrier large enough for them to turn around and lie down comfortably.
- If you cannot evacuate with your pets, leave your doors open and alert emergency responders to their location.
- Do not tranquilize your pets. They’ll need their survival instincts, should the disaster require that.
After The Fire
- Closely monitor your pet for any signs of distress.
- Make sure the disaster has fully passed and check the air quality index before going outside and assess damage before allowing children or animals out.
- Keep dogs on a leash and cats in a carrier, and children close at hand. Displaced objects, downed powerlines, and fallen trees can disorient or injure pets, and sharp debris could harm them as well.
- After the walk, clean your pet’s paws and face afterwards to ensure there is no ash or debris on them.
- Your pets can be affected by wildfire smoke. If you feel the effects of smoke, they probably do, too. Look out for the signs of smoke irritation, coughing or gagging, red or watery eyes, nasal discharge, noise when breathing or fast breathing, fatigue or weakness and reduced appetite or thirst, and see a vet immediately.
- Give pets time to become re-oriented. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and cause a pet to become confused or lost. Familiar bedding will often help alleviate some of the stress related to being displaced.
Photo credit: The Associated Press, 2025©
