Urgent From PETA: Wildfire Survival Tips to Help Animals
For Immediate Release:
September 9, 2024
Contact:
Nicole Perreira 202-483-7382
With the Line fire threatening San Bernardino County and thousands of residents under evacuation orders, animals are likely to die if abandoned. This information will undoubtedly save many animals’ lives and avoid much human remorse.
During evacuations, small animals such as cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and gerbils should be placed securely in carriers (birds should be covered), and dogs should be kept on a secure harness and leash. Take enough food for your animals to last several days. Horses, sheep, cows, llamas, and other large animals should never be locked in stalls or otherwise confined, unable to flee the flames. If it’s impossible to remove them, they should be freed so that they can attempt to survive. Anyone who sees animals in danger or distress should assist if possible, but if they’re unable to help, they should note their exact location and alert authorities immediately.
Residents in areas affected by smoke and falling ash should keep animals indoors and avoid all outdoor activities, such as running with dogs. Anyone who evacuates and intentionally abandons animals to fend for themselves may be prosecuted.
Everyone should make plans to ensure the safety of all animal companions in advance of trouble in order to avoid being caught unprepared.
PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow the group on X, Facebook, or Instagram.
