When wildfires strike, our first instinct is to protect the ones we love — including our pets. While bushfires are a natural part of Australia’s landscape, they can pose serious risks to our furry companions. Preparing for these emergencies can make all the difference in keeping your pets safe. Here’s what you need to know about pet safety during wildfires.
How to Prepare Your Pets for a Bushfire
Just like you, your pets need an emergency plan. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure they’re ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice:
Identification
Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip details are up to date. Attach a tag with your phone number to their collar for quick identification.
Emergency Kit
Pack a kit with essentials such as:
- Food and water (enough for at least three days)
- A sturdy leash and harness
- A crate or carrier for safe transport
- Blankets or bedding for comfort
- Medications and a basic first aid kit
- A favorite toy or item to reduce stress
Safe Shelter
Identify pet-friendly evacuation shelters or places where you can stay during a bushfire. Many emergency hospitals, dotted throughout Australia, can also provide temporary care.
What to Do With Pets in a Bushfire
The first step is to make sure you evacuate early. Don’t wait until the last minute to leave. Wildfires can spread quickly, and staying behind puts both you and your pets at risk. It’s safest to follow all official guidelines, and to move fast.
Then, keep your pets contained. During stressful situations, pets may try to flee. Keep them in a secure carrier or on a leash to ensure they stay with you.
It’s also very important to avoid exposure to smoke. Like humans, pets can suffer from smoke inhalation. Keep them indoors or in a well-ventilated space away from smoke.
Finally, have a plan for livestock. If you own larger animals, such as horses or cattle, move them to a safer location well in advance. Remove halters and collars to reduce the risk of injury.
Pet Fire Safety Tips
The best kind of preparation is exhaustive and starts early. As summer gets warmer, the risk to your pet increases. Stay ahead of any possible danger by following these tips.
Prepare Your Home
Create a defensible space around your property by clearing debris and trimming vegetation. This reduces fire risk and provides a safer environment for your pets.
Fireproof Your Pet’s Space
Avoid leaving pets in areas with flammable materials and ensure their living quarters are fire-resistant.
Alert Emergency Responders
Place a “Pets Inside” sticker on your windows or doors to inform rescue teams of animals on the property.
FAQs: Pet Fire Safety
The internet is full of information about pet fire safety – but a lot of it conflicts with each other. To ensure that you’re observing best practice, here are the most common questions about fire safety for pets, answered by us at Petbarn.
Can smoke from a fire hurt a dog?
Yes, smoke inhalation can be harmful to dogs and other pets. It can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory issues. Keep your pets indoors or in a well-ventilated area and consult a vet if they show signs of distress.
How to save your cat in a house fire?
Stay calm and act quickly. If possible, keep your cat in a secure carrier near an exit so you can grab them easily during an evacuation. Never delay your own escape to search for a pet—instead, alert firefighters to their presence.
Bushfires are unpredictable, but with preparation, you can protect your pets and keep them safe. Remember, their safety starts with you. For more tips and to stock up on emergency supplies, visit your local Petbarn or shop online.