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Wildfire Evacuation Plans for Your Pets.

Wildfire Evacuation Plans for Your Pets.
by
April 02, 2026
in Humane Education Column
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By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair

The winds have somewhat calmed today as I write this article, but they have been strong several days (weeks) in a row causing the weather service to issue red flag warnings. Forecasts show more days ahead with winds at 20-30 mph and gusts over 40mph. Add to those winds, our extremely dry, unusually warm conditions, and the fire danger moves to high. We in Colorado know all too well the devastation of those fires and the value of being prepared to evacuate, often with extremely short notice.

According to the American Red Cross, “in case of an emergency evacuation, your pets will be even more dependent on you for their safety and well-being, meaning your family’s disaster plans should include your furry family members too.”

A good place to start your pet preparedness for disasters, including wildfire evacuations, is on-line. One of the best sites for information is aspca.org. You will find a comprehensive account of the simple steps you can take now to protect your beloved pets in the event of any unexpected circumstances.

These guidelines cover a variety of situations that could impact your cats and dogs and also provide special considerations for horses, birds, reptiles and other small animals.

A few of their key suggestions for cats and dogs are:

Post a “Pet Rescue Alert Sticker” on or near your front door to let people know pets are inside your home. Include the species and numbers. Also include an emergency contact name and phone number. If you have evacuated with your pets, mark evacuated on this sign.

Do your best to not leave pets behind. They can become trapped, injured or lost. Never leave them tethered to poles or trees, which prevents them from escaping smoke and flames and getting to safety.

Be certain dogs are wearing collars with up to date ID information. Their being microchipped is also helpful. Have their leashes, carriers and crates prepared and close by for fast evacuation. Consider crating cats and dogs as soon as evacuation notices are issued – before they become afraid and hide. This practice will enhance their safety and lower stress.

Know all possible evacuation routes and select safe havens ahead of time for you and your pets. In our community, evacuated pets are often cared for by Ark-Valley Humane Society rather than staying at evacuation centers. If you prefer to remain with your pets, consider identifying pet-friendly lodging options in advance, as not all evacuation centers, hotels, or motels accept pets.

Secure a caregiver to execute your emergency plan in case you are away and cannot get home if an alert is issued. It should be someone you trust, who lives close, has access to your house, is usually home and knows your pets. Be certain they know the location of everything your pet needs, including medical records.

Prepare a “Go-Kit.” This should include: a 3-7 day supply of food and water and bowls for both; a two-week supply of medicines in a water-proof container; medical records, and a good photo; a signed veterinary medical treatment authorization; extra collar with ID and leash, pet first-aid kit; crate or sturdy carrier for each pet with padding; disposable litter trays and scoop-able litter; a few favorite toys and liquid dish-soap, disinfectant and disposable garbage bags for clean-up. Be certain that everyone in your family knows where this is located and keep anything that expires updated.

I hope and pray that there will be no wildfires in a season that looks to be extremely risky and that none of us will have to evacuate our families and our pets. The Ark-Valley Humane Society cares and wants to help you be prepared. Free “Pet Rescue Alert Stickers” are available at the Buena Vista shelter, 701 Gregg Drive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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