Animals in Emergencies
What will I do with my animals during an emergency?
It is important to include your animals in your planning for an emergency situation.
The following information is designed to assist you with you pets. For more information on how to prepare for, respond to and recover from an emergency situation with animals please visit Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website www.agric.wa.gov.au/animalwelfare
Download and complete our Animal Evacuation Plan here.
STEP 1 – What will I take?
Like humans, your animals will also need to have an Emergency kit on hand that can be accessed quickly when needed. Below is a list of essential items we recommend. Remember, you may not be able to get home for a while afterwards so aim to prepare your animal for 3-7 days away from home.
- Food, Treats & Water
- Bowls, Buckets & Tubs
- Any medications and prescriptions
- Toys
- Bedding
- Photo with owner, in case of separation
- Toileting requirements
- Registration, microchip and vaccination papers
Also ensure your animals registration and microchip details are up to date with the relevant organisation to enable the safe return of your animal should you become separated.
STEP 2 – How will I contain and transport my animals?
Securing your animals close by at the first sign of the emergency will ensure your household is ready to leave quickly.
Check that you have enough crates, carriers, cages and leads. Also work out what type of transport you will be using as you may need to make more than 1 trip to safely evacuate all of your animals.
Ensure your animal trailers and floats are roadworthy and easily accessible at all times.
STEP 3 – Where will you go and when?
- Leaving early is always the best way to ensure everyone remains safe but it is essential that you plan ahead.
- Where will you go with your animals? Most evacuation centres are unable to accommodate animals (except for assistance animals). Having a list of alternative places such as friends/family, boarding facilities or pet friendly accommodation is important.
- What route will you take? Ensure you have an evacuation route in place. We strongly encourage multiple routes in different directions should one become obstructed.
STEP 4 – What if I cant take my animals with me?
Unfortunately it may not always be possible to take your animals with you. If you do have to leave them behind, the advice below should be considered:
- Leave them indoors if possible
- Place animals in separate rooms with small or preferably no windows
- Provide plenty of food and water in large heavy bowls. A slow dripping tap can also provide a constant source of water
- If animals are left outside, do NOT tie them up
- Move animals to areas with no vegetation
- Ensure boundary fences and gates are closed to avoid animals running out on to roads.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES