Pets-A-Loud

25 Oct 2013

PETS-A-LOUD SPECIAL: Bushfires and Pet Safety

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In 2009, the Black Saturday fires ravaged hundreds of thousands of hectares in Victoria, devastating the lives of many and leaving lifelong scars in their hearts and minds.

During this time, The Lost Dogs’ Home came in touch with many families who went to great lengths to keep their pets safe, while the broader community generously offered much needed donations of blankets, pet food and supplies.

The overwhelming feeling following Victoria’s bushfires was the powerful and unpredictable nature of the Australian bush and the sheer importance of preparation well in advance.

Now, with bushfires continuing in New South Wales for almost a week, we are happy to report that our Moss Vale shelter has not come under direct threat from the fires. However, our thoughts are with all the residents, their beloved pets and the brave fire fighters who were impacted by the fires.

With the current bushfires in NSW and bushfire season nearing, on Pets-A-Loud tomorrow we look at fire safety and how to prepare for the safety of your pets.

Tune into Pets-A-Loud today as the team:

Reflect on Black Saturday and the impact it had on pet owners in the affected regions. The Home’s Shelter Operations Manager, Jodie Addamo, will share her experience of assisting the fire-ravaged communities in the King Lake district;
Speak with the CFA Community Education Coordinator, Ellisa Bourne, who will provide vital information on being prepared and planning for your pets during bushfire season well in advance;
Are grateful to Pam Ross, for sharing her son’s gruelling survival and heroic efforts to save his pets when the fire hit his town of Clonbinane near Wandong; and
Chat with Dr El Latch from the Frank Samways Veterinary Clinic about tips on how to care for pets who have had smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion.

Pets and Bushfire Safety

It is crucial to devise the plan early, keep it updated and conduct a drill evacuation regularly, to give you a sense of how much time you need.

Having a good and updated knowledge of the terrain you live on and accessible roads is also just another thing you will need to consider. Identifying your pet is vital, but making sure your details are updated is just as important.

There is a range of useful material online to help you prepare a Bushfire Safety Plan that includes your pets.

Identifying and updating your details with the National Pet Register: www.petregister.com.au

CFA Pets and Bushfire Safety Factsheet: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/pets-and-bushfires/

National Pet Register: www.petregister.com.au

DEPI Evacuation with pets factsheet: www.depi.vic.gov.au/fire-and-emergencies/animals-in-emergencies/evacuating-with-pets

Heat and bushfire safety for pets: www.dogshome.com/protect-your-pets-from-heat/