Urgent From PETA: Franklin Fire Survival Tips to Help Animals

For Immediate Release:
December 10, 2024

Contact:
Nicole Perreira 202-483-7382

With evacuation orders issued due to the Franklin fire, PETA is providing tips for keeping animals safe. This information will undoubtedly save many animals’ lives and avoid much human remorse, as animals are likely to die if abandoned during an evacuation.

When evacuating, small animals such as cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and gerbils must 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 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.

Animals must never be left behind. Anyone who evacuates and intentionally abandons animals to fend for themselves may be prosecuted.

PETA’s image below reminds everyone to make plans to ensure the safety of all animal companions in advance of trouble and to avoid being caught unprepared. PETA is additionally sharing its wildfire-preparedness public service announcement featuring Ali MacGraw.

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 PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.