As wildfires rage across Southern California, pet owners are urged to prioritize their animals' safety by preparing for evacuation and protecting them from smoke and poor air quality.
As Southern California grapples with multiple wildfires fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, experts and animal welfare organizations are urging pet owners to take steps to protect cats, dogs and other animals.With evacuation orders affecting thousands of residents, including those in Pacific Palisades, Pasadena and Sylmar, pet owners are being urged to include their animals in their disaster preparedness plans.
Having a solid plan in place is crucial for pet safety during wildfires, according to Paige Adams, a veterinarian at Etowah Veterinary Hospital in Marietta, Georgia. '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,' Adams told Newsweek. She recommends microchipping pets for identification in case they are separated from their owners, ensuring pets have collars with up-to-date ID tags, and keeping a well-stocked emergency 'go bag.' Items for a pet 'go bag' should include: Food, treats and clean water Bowls for eating and drinking Medical records and a recent photo of your pet A leash, collar, harness, or carrier for safe transport Basic first aid supplies, including any medications your pet may need Comfort items like toys or blankets to reduce stress Adams added that stress can cause pets to panic or flee during emergencies. 'Fire can be very scary to an animal and cause them to panic. Keeping them calm and with you will help keep them safe.' 'The smoke and poor air quality itself is just as dangerous to pets as it is to people,' Adams said. She added that cats and birds are particularly vulnerable due to their sensitive respiratory systems. Keeping pets indoors as much as possible and limiting outdoor activity to short bathroom breaks is vital when air quality alerts are in effect. Animals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are especially at ris
WILDFIRE SAFETY PETS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EVACUATION SMOKE
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Southern California native shares experience of wildfire risk as she resides in Montgomery CountyAs fast-moving fires continue to burn across southern California, it's a good reminder of how quickly things can change when it comes to wildfires.
Read more »
Dick Van Dyke among stars forced to flee Southern California wildfireThe fire erupted Monday night amid strong Santa Ana winds.
Read more »
Santa Ana Winds Increase Wildfire Risk for Southern California New Year's EveSanta Ana winds will bring increased wildfire risk to Southern California on New Year's Eve. The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
Read more »
Santa Ana Winds Pose Major Wildfire Risk to Southern CaliforniaStrong Santa Ana winds combined with a severe drought are creating a high risk of wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties this week. Meteorologists warn that gusts up to 80 mph could rapidly spread any fires that ignite.
Read more »
AI-Powered Cameras Detect Wildfire in Southern CaliforniaFor the first time, an AI system alerted authorities to a wildfire in Southern California without a human call. The University of California San Diego’s ALERTCalifornia camera network detected an anomaly and alerted the Orange County Fire Authority.
Read more »
Another round of powerful, dry winds to raise wildfire risk across Southern CaliforniaWinds will whip up and humidity levels will drop in Southern California this week, raising the risk for wildfires in parched areas still recovering from a recent destructive blaze. The National Weather Service warns that gusts could reach 80 mph across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties as winds intensify Tuesday into Wednesday.
Read more »