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Fire Safety for Pets

When forest fires endanger residential neighborhoods, the prepared pet and owner can evacuate quickly, safely

By CTW Features

Dry summer conditions are always ripe for an occurrence of brush fires that could endanger neighborhoods, and the arrival of heavy smoke may cause localized evacuation.

"Be prepared to take pets with you when evacuation orders are issued," advised Laura Bevan, director of The Humane Society of the United States Southeast Regional Office, Deerfield Beach, Fla. "If it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for them."

All pet owners should have an emergency supply kit for their animals, which should include:

• Three-or-more-day supply of food in airtight, waterproof container and drinking water

• Bowls for food and water

• Current photos and physical description of your pets, including details on markings

• Medications, vaccination records and first aid pet supplies

• Comfort items such as a toy and blanket

• Small garbage bags

• For dogs include – leash, harness and a sturdy carrier large enough to use as a sleeping area

• For cats include – litter and litter box and a sturdy carrier large enough for transport and for your cat to use as a temporary "apartment" for several days

Bevan advises:

• Placing the pet emergency supply kit by the door or directly in your car so it is ready to go if you need to evacuate quickly.

• Making sure your pet has visible identification on right now, before you have to leave home.

• Talking with a trusted neighbor who is home during the workday and can evacuate your pets if you are away.

When officials call for an evacuation, pet owners should be aware that many evacuation shelters do not accept pets, and they must plan their destination in advance. Hotels and motels may be willing to lift "no pet" restrictions in an emergency. Friends and family members living outside the area may be able to provide shelter too. Please check with your local animal shelter or emergency management office to determine the location of pet friendly shelters in your area.

More than 358 million pets reside in 63 percent of American households. A Zogby International poll found that 61 percent of pet owners will not evacuate if they cannot bring their pets with them.

For more tips on preparedness plans that include your pets, visit humanesociety.org/prepare.

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SEE THE GALLERY

Ways to Welcome Home a New Feline

From Allie Phillips of King Street Cats, a cat-rescue group in Alexandria, Va., which holds open adoptions at downtown locations every Sunday

Give the cat its own room

A new home can seem huge, intimidating and overwhelming. So find a room that will allow the cat to get accustomed to the smells and sounds. Placing a cat-calming Feliway plug-in device in the room may also help.

Make introductions slowly

If you have other cats or pets, a several-step introduction is best. First, allow your current pets to see the new cat through a baby-gated doorway or by someone holding the new cat while your current pet is held and petted (to reduce anxiety and jealousy.) Cats will invariably growl and hiss during introductions. Keep petting and talking to all pets. Let the pets decide when they want to get closer to sniff each other, which may take days or even weeks.

Kitty-proof your home

If this is your first cat, be sure electrical cords are hidden or secured to avoid chewing; check tables and shelves for breakable items; beware of lit candles on low tables; and be sure basements and other areas don’t have small openings to the outdoors. Lock away cleaners, chemicals, fertilizers and other toxins with baby-proof hinges. Have at least one litter box per cat.

Provide supervision

During the first weeks of allowing your new cat to roam free in your house, it's best to be watchful. You can help it locate litter boxes and food/water bowls and you'll discover its hiding places. And if you have other pets, you can ensure there are no conflicts.

Give lots of love

Keep your level of attention for existing pets consistent when a new cat arrives. If you suddenly stop or reduce the level of play and interaction with current pets, jealousy can ensue and the new cat could become the target of attacks. Engage in playtime with all the cats together.