By Rachel Fraser
Pets make everything a little more complicated, and evacuation preparedness in wildfire season is no exception. It’s important to plan ahead to ensure that your pets are not an afterthought or an obstacle to getting out safely should a hurried evacuation be necessary.
“Prepare a go bag,” said Bill Penhallurick, Manager of Emergency Response at the BC SPCA. “That is the number one thing… Probably the number one reason for people leaving animals behind is that they’re not prepared to grab and go with an animal.”
Checklists published by the BC SPCA and the Jasper and Valemount Veterinary Clinic recommend the bag contain at least a two-week supply of food and water, and list supplies such as waste bags, a spare litter box and litter, spare collar with id tags, leash and harness. Don’t forget to stock up on consumable habitat supplies for small, caged pets. Comfort items such as blankets, beds or favourite toys are also suggested.
Include a first aid kit, any necessary medications, photos and written descriptions of pets, pet insurance information, and vet records, keeping in mind that kennels will require vaccination records.
Dunster-based vet Dr. Tom Vogel, would like cat owners in particular to always know where their pets are when there is the potential for fire. You don’t want to be searching for them when time is of the essence.
Factor pet-friendly accommodations into your own evacuation planning on multiple routes, and consider whether kenneling will be required or reliably available. Keep in mind that many pet parents will likely also be evacuating and counting on the same resources. Area kennels and rescues may be overflowing.
Penhallurick says the BC SPCA can help with emergency boarding, emergency pet supplies, animal retrieval, and even care and feeding in place in the case of animals that can’t be easily moved, such as aquariums. He said it’s best to call the Animal Helpline (see sidebar) for assistance and direction, rather than drop in at a location that may be busy with many evacuees.
Incorporate family members, pet-sitters and neighbours into your emergency planning in case you are not able to reach your home and pets or require their assistance.
The Jasper-Valemount Vet Clinic recommends a health check for your pet, including vaccinations and parasite treatments, in case emergency kenneling becomes necessary.
Having your pet microchipped or tattooed can ensure a speedy reunion if the unthinkable happens and you are unexpectedly separated from your pet. The BC SPCA recommends registering your pet’s ID with the BC Pet Registry and double checking that your contact information is up to date.
Familiarizing your fur babies with their carriers and practicing evacuation procedures in advance with lots of treats and rewards will make the process speedier and less stressful for all involved in the event of the real thing.
