Urgent From PETA: Wildfire Survival Tips for Animals in Arizona

For Immediate Release:
June 7, 2021

Contact:
Nicole Meyer 202-483-7382

Because the Telegraph and Mescal fires continue to threaten areas near Pinal and Gila counties in Arizona and evacuations have been ordered, animals must be kept indoors and will die if abandoned.

Residents in areas affected by smoke and falling ash should keep animals indoors and avoid all outdoor activities, such as running with dogs. If visibility is less than 5 miles, smoke has compromised the air quality and reached unsafe levels. Anyone who sees animals in distress and is unable to help should note their locations and alert authorities immediately.

Trapped horses and other animals can’t outrun wildfires. They should never be locked in their stalls or confined in any way so that they’re unable to flee.

PETA has released a wildfire-preparedness public service announcement featuring Dean Winters. It will remind everyone to make plans to ensure the safety of animal companions in advance of trouble in order to avoid being caught unprepared. PETA also offers a video about keeping animal companions safe during fires for you to share. For more information, visit PETA.org or follow the group on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

Areas that have been alerted to PETA’s hot weather survival tips are Gila County, Pinal County, and Phoenix, AZ.