With another potentially severe wildfire season approaching in British Columbia, the BC SPCA is urging pet owners to make emergency plans that include their pets.
The warning comes during Emergency Preparedness Week as warm, dry conditions across much of the province have raised concerns about wildfire activity this summer.
The animal welfare organization said pet owners should prepare evacuation supplies in advance, ensure identification records are up to date and have backup plans in place in case they are forced to leave their homes quickly.
“Crates are critical for your pet’s safety during an emergency,” the BC SPCA said, noting animals are less likely to panic during evacuations if they are already comfortable in kennels or carriers.
The organization recommends keeping a pet-specific emergency “go bag” ready with enough food and water for one to two weeks, along with medication, vaccination records, proof of ownership, bedding and other essentials.
The BC SPCA also advises pet owners to confirm their animal’s microchip or tattoo information is current through the BC Pet Registry.
Residents are encouraged to identify a trusted friend, neighbour or family member who could help collect or care for pets during an evacuation if owners are unavailable.
The reminder may resonate strongly in the Kootenays, where communities have faced repeated evacuation alerts and wildfire threats in recent years.
During the 2023 wildfire season, the BC SPCA said it received 380 emergency-related calls, cared for 200 evacuated animals, checked on 240 animals in the field and distributed more than 450 kilograms of pet food to evacuees in affected regions, including the Interior.
The organization said emergency support can include temporary boarding, pet food banks and other supplies for evacuees unable to care for their animals during a crisis.
Emergency Preparedness Week runs nationally each May and encourages Canadians to develop emergency plans before disasters happen.
