INCLUDING pets in emergency planning greatly increases the likelihood of animals being evacuated safely, rather than having to leave them behind, says RSPCA WA.
Citing the Mariginiup bushfire, which started on November 22 and burnt 1900ha, RSPCA WA animal and enforcement operations executive manager Hannah Dreaver said the recent bushfire was a tragic reminder that everyone needed to be prepared.
“Our heart goes out to everyone who suffered loss through that fire,” she said.
“I think what struck so many people about that blaze is that it impacted people in suburban areas – the same kind of cul-de-sacs and streets so many of us live in.
“Often when we think of bushfires, we think of country areas and large bush properties, but this fire really brought home how important an emergency plan is for everyone.
“Evacuating pets in a crisis can often be complex as many evacuation centres are unable to accept pets so you need to plan ahead.”
RSPCA WA’s top tips for including pets in emergency evacuation plans include making sure pets are microchipped and wearing council registration tags so they can be identified quickly if you get separated and having a kit packed and ready to go including regular medications, food, water, bowls, and vet and microchip details.
For cats, RSPCA WA advises including a secure carrier and a cat litter tray and some litter.For cats, RSPCA WA advises including a secure carrier and a cat litter tray and some litter.
They also suggest talking to family and friends who don’t live in your area and create a list of those willing and able to take them in along with their phone numbers.
Telling your neighbours about your pet evacuation plan so if you’re not home in time, they can carry it out for you is another recommendation.
Their advice is to not leave your pet tied up if you can’t take your pet with you as it will prevent them from escaping if they need to.
If you can’t take your pet with you, leave out extra food and water as it could be several days before you can regain access and if you can, leave a note on your front door listing what pets are inside.
The RSPCA said there are online resources to help you plan for your animals’ safety in an emergency.
For more information and to create your bushfire plan, head to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services bushfire plan website
