Over the last few years, it feels like wildfires have been an increasing problem. And in light of what is happening in California as 2025 begins, experts are offering their tips for safety and support during this difficult time. Specifically, we have pet safety tips courtesy of two veterinarians.
Both Dwight Alleyne, DVM and Katherine Merkatoris, DVM of JustAnswer offered some tips that they felt would help pet owners both now and in the future who are faced with the dangers of wildfires. Natural disasters and fires can happen at any time and being prepared for them can potentially save you a lot of heartache in the future.
So what advice did they have for people facing the dangers of wildfire?
Two veterinarians share their wildfire safety tips for pet parents
Up first, we have Dwight Alleyne who has 15 years of experience with both cats and dogs. So what were his tips for pet parents facing wildfires?
According to Dr. Alleyne, "Outdoor exposure should be very limited to avoid respiratory issues from the smoke. They should only go out to use the bathroom and come right back in. While indoors, windows and doors should be kept closed to minimize smoke from infiltrating indoors. Air purifiers should be utilized if available to maintain air quality.
Pets should be monitored closely for any signs of respiratory distress, especially pets with a history of chronic respiratory disease, or cardiac disease. These can include coughing, increased breathing effort, lethargy, or exercise intolerance.
In case of an evacuation, a kit should be available which has all necessities for their pets. This should include food, water, any medications, carriers, and any comfort items. Since this can be a stressful time for many pets, you may need to have calming supplements available. This would also be a good time to check to see if all pets have up to date microchip information in case they are lost."
Of course, Dr. Alleyne was not the only veterinarian expert with advice for pet parents. We also got some expert advice from Katherine Merkatoris. So what did she have to say?
According to Dr. Merkatoris, "When it comes to fire safety with our pets it is most important to have an exit strategy for them prior to needing to evacuate. This would include a safe way to transport them (kennels for cats, leashes for dogs) since when stressed even the calmest of animals might try to flee as well as a safe spot for relocation (family or friend’s home, veterinary clinic, etc). This way a plan is in place prior to any issues."
Even beyond wildfires, this next tip should be something that we all do. As our expert shared, "placing a sticker on doors to the home that state how many pets live in the home are extremely helpful for firemen in case of a fire. Cats, specifically, will often hide and can be unnoticed and left behind."
The final tips from Dr. Merkatoris are as follows, "Making sure your pet is microchipped or other proper identification is super important as well in case they are displaced and later found. If your pet is exposed to smoke or fire it is important to have them evaluated by a veterinarian as they can not only have respiratory issues or burns, but also ulcerations to their eyes, etc. Pets with underlying issues such as asthma can have exacerbated signs. If you are evacuating, your pets should be as well."
Honestly, these are great tips and things we should all pay attention to, especially since we never know what could happen. Not only can fires happen anywhere, but so can natural disasters and storms. And having a basis for keeping our pets safe can change the outcome of even the very worst day.