As LA faces the ongoing threat of multiple fires, veterinarians and animal welfare organizations are urging pet owners to prepare for evacuations by assembling emergency “go bags” for their furry companions. In an environment where every second counts, a well-prepared plan can mean the difference between chaos and safety for both pets and their families.
Vet recommends keeping pets calm during fires to ensure their safety
The sight of flames and the smell of smoke can instill panic not just in humans but in animals as well. Paige Adams, a veterinarian from Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Georgia, highlights the importance of keeping pets calm during such distressing situations. Animals can sense fear and stress, and it is crucial to maintain a calming presence to help them through it, Adams advises.
Adams suggests that pet owners consider microchipping their pets for identification and ensuring their collars have current ID tags. This step can prove invaluable if pets become separated from their owners during an evacuation. Additionally, assembling an emergency go bag specifically for pets can facilitate a quick and efficient response in the face of an urgent evacuation order.
So, what should be in a pet go bag? Essential items include a few days’ supply of food and water, bowls, any necessary medications, a first aid kit, and comfort items like a blanket or a toy. Including a recent photo of the pet can also be helpful for identification purposes. These items can make a significant difference in ensuring pets remain as comfortable and stress-free as possible during an emergency.
“The smoke and poor air quality itself is just as dangerous to pets as it is to people,” Adams said as per Newsweek. She recommends keeping pets indoors and restricting their outdoor activity to brief bathroom breaks whenever air quality is poor or compromised.
The fire situation has reached a critical level, with the Palisades Fire alone burning over 2,900 acres and spreading at an alarming pace. Evacuation orders have already been issued in areas like Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and Sylmar. In these unpredictable circumstances, having a prepared emergency plan is not just wise — it is essential.
Originally reported by Zahrah Patel on DogTime.
