RSPCA Victoria and CFA are calling on Victorians to include pets in their bushfire survival plans, as Victoria faces an increased risk of fires this summer, especially in drought-affected areas.
Pet owners can save valuable time in fire emergencies by having bedding, food, and water ready to go for their furry friend.
RSPCA Victoria head of prevention Rebecca Cook highlighted the importance of including pets in bushfire survival plans.
“Planning for emergencies is part of life in Victoria, and is critical during the summer months,” Ms Cook said.
“We’re urging everyone to make sure their pets are included in their Fire Ready plans in place ahead of what could be a very dangerous fire season this year.”
“An emergency kit with medication, photos or scans on your phone of important documents like vaccination certifications, and updated contact details on microchips and collars, are just some of the items to prepare in advance.
“Including your pets in your Fire Ready plans increases the chances of you and your pet making it to safety in an emergency situation.”
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the finer details matter when preparing a bushfire plan.
“Everyone should always prioritise their own safety, however your bushfire plan isn’t fully complete unless it accounts for your pets,” Jason said.
“When building your plan, think about what your pets will eat and drink, necessary medications, how you transport them, and where you are taking them.
“Once your kit is prepared, keep it in an easily accessible place, with towels and woollen blankets on hand to protect pets during the journey and help keep them as cool as possible.
“Lastly, microchipping your pets for easy identification and ensuring your phone number is visible on their collar will help you get reunited sooner in case you get separated.”
For horses and livestock, a separate plan is required.
“If you aren’t able to evacuate livestock, a large, well-grazed, and fenced area away from roads where they can move freely with access to water, would be the safest place for them,” Jason said.
“A late evacuation will put you and your animals at risk; Make sure you’re prepared.”
Details: rspcavic.org/emergencyplanning or cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/before-and-during-a-fire/pets-and-bushfires for help making your emergency plan this summer
