Wildfires raging from Santa Barbara to San Diego have forced Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to declare a state of emergency for seven southern California counties. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) strongly urges all pet owners in the path of the fires to plan ahead for the safety of their animal companions.
Strong winds and dry conditions have fed the fires that have already forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. HSUS employees are ready to evacuate The Fund For Animals Wildlife Center in Ramona, Calif., which houses a wide variety of rescued animals. Local volunteers helped the fast-acting staff to prepare the site and protect the animals at the Wildlife Center. Fires are burning to the east of the center such that the animals are currently outside the path of the fires.
Employees at the Wildlife Center, who have experienced evacuations first-hand, urge all residents in the path of the fires to be prepared to take their pets if they have to leave their homes. If the area is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pets. Information regarding pet and large animal evacuation centers is being widely broadcast on local television and radio outlets. No animal needs to be left behind as long as they can be transported.
The failure to plan for your pets' safety can lead to tragedy. During Hurricane Katrina residents were forced to abandon dogs, cats and other animals by the tens of thousands. Fortunately, you can take simple steps to ensure that your pets will not be left in a dangerous situation.
The HSUS suggests that all pet owners have an emergency supply kit for their pets, including:
• A three-day supply of food and drinking water, as well as bowls, cat litter and a container to be used as a litter box.
• Current photos and descriptions of pets.
• Up-to-date identification, including an additional tag with the phone number of someone out of the area in the event the pet becomes lost.
• Medications, medical records and a first aid kit stored in a waterproof container.
• Sturdy leashes, harnesses, and carriers to transport pets safely as well as blankets or towels for bedding and warmth. Carriers should be large enough to comfortably house your pet for several hours or even days.
For more information about disaster preparedness, visit humanesociety.org/disaster.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization – backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org .
