Now that you have taken steps to keep your family and home fire safe, start working on your pets and livestock’s plan and preparation.

Pets

NOTE: Pets may not be allowed inside human emergency shelters – have an alternate prearranged location to take your animals.

• Make sure your pets are always wearing properly fitted collars with personal identification, rabies and license tags.
• Each animal should have it’s own pet carrier. Birds, rodents and reptiles should be transported in cages. Cover cages with a light sheet or cloth to minimize their fear.
• Ensure that you have all the important documentation for your pets in your emergency kit. This includes: Store vaccination/medical records, veterinary contact information, proof of owner- ship, a current photo.

Pet Disaster Preparedness Kit

• One pet carrier for every pet
• Two-week supply of food and water
• Non-spill food and water bowls
• Pet first-aid kit
• Medications and dosing instructions
• Car litter box and litter
• Plastic bags for waste disposal
• Paper towels
• Disinfectants
• Leashes/collars/harnesses
• Blankets
• Toys and treats

If You Must Leave Your Pet

• If you must leave your pets, bring them indoors. Never leave pets chained outdoors!
• Use a room with no windows and adequate ventilation, such as a utility room, garage, bathroom, or other area that can be easily cleaned. Do not tie pets up!
• Leave only dry foods and fresh water in non-spill containers. If possible open a faucet to let water drip into a large container or partially fill a bathtub with water.

Livestock

• Create a defensible space around your barns, pastures, and property, just like you did your home.
• Know where you will evacuate the animals. Take them there well before the fire arrives. Contact your local fairgrounds, stockyards or centers. If those are not available, call friends and check their ability to take livestock in an emergency.  
• During a wildfire, local animal rescue organizations work with law enforcement and fire departments to rescue animals when they can. It should be noted that while battling a wildfire, firefighters will do what they can but they are not responsible for evacuating your livestock. Firefighters may cut fences or open gates to free trapped animals.
• If you don’t have your own truck and trailer, call for arrangements with local livestock, animal companies or neighbors before the fire arrives.
• Have vaccination/ medical records, registration papers and photographs of your animals (proof of ownership) placed in your emergency kit
• If you must leave your animals, leave them in a preselected, cleared area. Leave enough hay for 72 hours. Do not rely on automatic watering systems. Power may be lost.

Livestock Disaster Preparedness Kit

• Hay, feed and water for at least three days
• First aid items
• Wire cutters and a sharp knife
• Hoof pick
• Leg wraps
• Shovel
• Water buckets
• Plastic trash barrel with a lid