CFA and RSPCA Victoria are urging residents to include pets in their bushfire survival plans, amid the significant fire activity already impacting Victoria this summer.
Having bedding, food, and water ready to go for your furry friend could save valuable time in the event of a fire.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan emphasised the importance of being ready to leave early on high-risk bushfire days.
“While you should always prioritise your own safety ahead of your pets, your bushfire plan isn’t fully complete unless it accounts for them,” Jason said.
“When creating a plan, consider what your pets will eat and drink, how you will transport them, and where you are taking them.
“Once you have your kit prepared, keep it somewhere that’s easily accessible.
“Keep towels and woollen blankets on hand to protect pets during the journey and to keep them as cool as possible.
“Another valuable step is microchipping pets for easy identification and ensuring your phone number is visible on their collar.
For horses and livestock, a separate plan is required.
“If you’re unable to evacuate livestock, the safest place is a large, well-grazed, and fenced area away from roads where they can move freely with access to water,” Jason said.
“Make sure you’re prepared; late evacuation will put you and your animals at risk.”
RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker reiterated the importance of including pets in bushfire survival plans.
“Planning for emergencies is such a crucial part of life in Victoria particularly during the summer months,” Dr Walker said.
“Many people across the state already have a Fire Ready plan in place, and we’re urging everyone to make sure their pets are included too.
“An emergency kit with medication, updated contact details on microchips and collars, photos or scans on your phone of important documents like vaccination certifications, are just some of the items to prepare in advance.
“Our pets are such an important part of our lives, including them in your Fire Ready plans increases the chances of you and your pet making it to safety in an emergency situation.”
For more information and tips on how to keep your pets and livestock safe during high bushfire risk days, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/pets.
Your Pet Bushfire Relocation Kit should include:
- Food and water
- A bowl for each pet
- A second collar and lead
- A carrier for cats and smaller pets
- Bedding and a woollen blanket
- A pet first-aid kit – seek your vet’s advice
- A favourite toy
- Any medications, along with a written list of what they are
- Your pet’s medical history, including proof of vaccination
- Your vet’s contact details
Tips for keeping pets cool
- Have fresh, cold water available at all times
- Ensure your pet has shade at all times or bring them inside into a cool room
- Wipe your pet down with a cool, damp towel or leave wet towels out for them to lie on
- Wet your dog with cool water several times throughout the day
- Consider buying a wading pool for your dog
- For cats, rub damp hands over their coat or along their tummy
- Place ice blocks in your pet’s water bowl
- Place ice in a pillow case and place it near your pets
- Consider having your dog clipped if their coat is long and thick
- Never leave your pets in a vehicle on a hot day
