Photo credit: BC SPCA

By Pete McIntyre

Pet safety

Don’t forget pets when making emergency plans: BC SPCA

May 8, 2024 | 6:00 AM

People are reminded to think about their pets — in addition to family members — when making plans for emergencies.

The BC SPCA says pets are often forgotten when these plans are being put together.

Bill Penhallurick, the BC SPCA’s manager of emergency response, said making a plan for your pet not only ensures their safety, it also plays a role in the safety of emergency responders and families.

“Studies have shown that having pets was the most significant reason households failed to evacuate during major events and the risk of not evacuating nearly doubled with each additional animal in the home.”

Penhallurick said during a wildfire evacuation there often isn’t much time to get out of your home and on the road. There are a lot of open doors and noises that can scare your pet and cause them to run away.

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“Something as simple as making sure you have sturdy carriers for your pets to safely contain them while you get ready to leave can make a huge difference,” Penhallurick said. “Often, with only minutes to evacuate, there is no time to look for a dog or cat and having to leave your beloved pet behind only adds to the trauma of an evacuation.”

The SPCA also recommends pet guardians have a registered microchip on their pet with current contact information so that if they do go missing, they can be more easily reunited with their family. The society also suggests having a grab and go container with a two-to-four-week supply of food, water, and treats, plus bowls, as well as your pet’s medications and medical records.

“People forget that during an emergency, accessing a pet store for food and supplies may be impossible,” he said.

The SPCA has a number of resources on their website to help pet owners prepare for an evacuation including an emergency checklist.

Penhallurick also pointed out that during an evacuation, the SPCA’s animal centres are prepared to provide free emergency pet boarding,.

“Finding accommodation during a mass evacuation can be really challenging and adding a pet, or multiple, to the mix can make it almost impossible. Emergency boarding through the BC SPCA means we take these pets into our care temporarily while evacuees find a place to stay.”

Penhallurick said guardians are welcome to come visit their dogs and other pets and the agency can provide updates on how their pets are doing while in care.

“There is no limit to the pet’s length of stay,” he stated.

For more information, visit spca.bc.ca