As we are all well aware, we are currently experiencing the annual bush fire season. Fires are spreading rapidly around NSW, and temperatures are absolutely scorching! I felt it would be appropriate to provide some insight on how to care for your pets throughout this heat rise, as well as educate you on the role of the NSW Trade and Investment in Animal Welfare issues during bush fire emergencies.
Yesterday we experienced 42 degrees of heat surrounding us, and I couldn’t help but notice my pets panting and resting on the ground the whole day. Poor babys! The first thing I did was fill their water bowls up with fresh cold water and add ice to each bowl to maintain the coolness. I also put the dogs in the cold shower (as I don’t have a swimming pool and all beaches ban dogs), which instantly cooled them down. They were able to run around the house with wet fur for a few hours which helped lower their heat levels instantly. We were all so fortunate to be safe yesterday, far away from the bush fires – I feel for those who experienced the dramatic firing blazes abroad their homes.
It is important to have a back up emergency plan, incase a bushfire ever does occur. You can never be too sure.
According to The NSW Rural Fire Service Emergency Plan, they strongly advise all pet owners to provide water, shade and a safe place for their animals during the bush fire. They must always remain contained in a well cleared fenced-in area. They are not allowed to run free on the roads, as this is not only dangerous for them, but also for the fire fighters and people on the streets.
Also, make sure your pets are wearing identification tags or have been microchipped – as they can easily respond to this bush fire by running as far away as possible. It may help to attach a lead to your dog, so he/she can easily be catched and put somewhere safe.
If you decide to stay with your animals at home (which I hope everyone would stay with them, regardless!) Do not shut them in a barn, kennel, hutch etc outside as that will leave them with no chance of saving themselves in the fire.
If you decide to evacuate, put your cat in its carry cage and ensure your name, address and contact number is on that cage – and the same with the other pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs etc. Don’t forget to take any medications with you.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries is requested to assist in their rescue and care and can do so in cooperation with other agricultural and animal welfare organisations. NSW DPI and its support network can assist in:
• Coordinating the rescue and housing of companion animals
• Coordinating the supply of food to animals stranded by bushfire;
• Providing veterinary assistance to companion animals.
You can read more about the NSW DPI and its role here
Some tips from WIRES (Australian Wildlife Rescue Organisation):
You can leave bowls of water out for animals escaping the fires
Keep cats indoors and dogs under control wherever possible
Keep a cardboard box and towel in the boot of the car in case you find an injured animal
If you rescue an animal that has been burnt, wrap it loosely, place it in a cardboard box, keep it in a dark, quiet and warm place
Call WIRES 1 300 094 737 as soon as possible for advice and assistance
Do not try and feed the animal
Do not leave food out in national parks for wildlife
In response to a bushfire emergency, the primary role of NSW Trade and Investment is to:
-> Provide immediate Animal Relief Services and continuing rehabilitation assistance to primary producers;
-> Coordinate the supply and distribution of emergency fodder supplies and other materials to animals affected by bushfires;
-> Provide animal care services for livestock, horses, wildlife, fish and companion pets of victims evacuated from an area affected by a bushfire emergency.
For more information on preparing your livestock for bushfire, contact your local vet or DPIPWE’s Animal Health and Welfare Branch on 1300 368 550 or email AnimalWelfare.Enquiries@dpipwe.tas.gov.au
You can find out about all the Fire Updates here
Brittany Bloomer 
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