Los Angeles wildfires: Veterinarian urges people to follow these tips to protect their cats, dogs and other pets

With frequent evacuation commands and the need to make urgent moves, having a plan to safeguard pets is necessary.

PUBLISHED 4 DAYS AGO

(L) A stock image of a burning house. (Representative Cover Image Source: Pexels| Vladimir Shipitsin), (R) Pets cat and dog looking at the camera. (Representative Cover Image Source: Pexels| Nadia Vasil'eva)

Four devastating wildfires raging across Los Angeles have been ruthless on its residents. They have engulfed thousands of houses and other structures in just a few days, leaving many without a place to call home. To save the lives of people living in the affected areas, evacuation commands and danger warnings are being issued regularly, reported Newsweek. Amid the precautions and safety measures being taken for people, authorities are also focusing on ensuring the safety of animals affected by the fire, as animal shelters are struggling with the influx of displaced pets. Because of the hazardous conditions around them, it has become one of the top priorities for pet owners to safeguard their dogs and other pets’ well-being. Paige Adams, a veterinarian at Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, has urged pet owners to have a plan ready for their furry loved ones.

Fire burning among branches of trees in forest. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Plato Terentev)

"It is essential to have a plan in place so if something happens, you don't have to scramble and figure out what to do. You know your plan and can take immediate action," the veterinarian suggested. She has also shared some easy tips that people are advised to follow to protect their pets .

A woman taking care of her pet dog and cat. (Representative Image Source: Pexels | Jsme MILA)

1. Identification

The veterinarian recommended having an updated collar or tag on pets with necessary details should they be separated from their owners. As an additional precaution, she suggested microchipping pets for detailed identification and tracking.

Different dogs sitting comfortably with dog collar for identification. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by Nancy Guth)

2. To-go bag

There is an emergency all over Los Angeles with the evacuations and the need to move astutely. Having a to-go bag for pets, should you need to evacuate, is a well-planned move. The bag can contain items like food, treats and clean water, bowls for eating and drinking, medical records and a recent photo of your pet. People are also urged to carry leashes or other safety and carrier materials to travel or move easily with their pets. Basic first aid supplies and other medications are also essential to keep in the bag. Don’t miss out on your pet’s favorite toy or blanket to comfort them when they are anxious.

Cats eating food from bowl while owner pets them. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by Helena Lopes)

3. Stress management

Pets can get afraid and stressed with the fire and smoke. This can cause heavy stress responses, a worrisome one being running away in fear. "Fire can be very scary to an animal and cause them to panic. Keeping them calm and with you will help keep them safe,” Adams noted.

Scared dog hiding and peeking through blanket. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by Em Hopper)

4. Smoke aversion

With the wildfires spreading and smoke destroying much, animals are more vulnerable to the dangers of the toxic smoke due to their respiratory systems. The veterinarian advised people to keep an eye on their pets and note any sign of discomfort. Indicators like coughing or gagging, difficulty in breathing or increased breathing rate, eye irritation or excessive watering from the eyes and fatigue or loss of appetite should be monitored. Consult a vet if any of these symptoms seem suspicious or worrisome.

Vet checking pet dog who might be sick after experiencing symptoms. (Representative Image Source: Pexels| Photo by Mikhail Nilov)

Nick Cohen from the Kern County Animal Services noted that animal shelters are not in a position to take more pets in and it is crucial to be on the lookout for organizations helping with the same, per KBAK - a TV station affiliated with CBS. He also suggested that apart from “to-go” bags, pet owners can stock up on food and medication. Another smart move recommended is to familiarize pets with neighbors or relatives so they can move comfortably and are not lost during emergencies. Cohen suggested moving pets to areas outside of the wildfire-affected spaces if possible too.