Staying safe during fire season is imperative, but what about taking care of our pets?
As smoky and hazy conditions roll into Lane County and beyond, we spoke to Greenhill Humane as well as local veterinarians to get an idea of how to keep your furry friends healthy, safe, and ready to go if you need to evacuate.
"[The] most important thing is to create a plan with your family," said Greenhill's Community Engagement and Humane Education Manager Meghan Burroughs. "Make sure that you have a place to go that's away from your home in a safe area and that your pets are allowed to."
Burroughs and Greenhill also stress the importance of having a "to-go" bag ready for your pets. On its website, Greenhill lists the following:
- Food & Water (for at least three days)
- Treats & Biscuits
- Medications
- Vaccines & current medical records
- License information
- Carriers, crates, & pens
- Leashes, harnesses, grooming items
- Comfort items like toys and bedding
- First aid kit
More information regarding Greenhill's disaster resources is available at green-hill.org/disaster-resources.
With smoky conditions, vets emphasize limiting outdoor exposure for pets as smoky conditions persist.
Closing doors, and windows, as well as keeping an eye out on how your pet is reacting to the smoke. Excessive smoke exposure can damage their lungs, skin, as well as the immune system. If they're biting or itching their skin more than normal, give them a bath as contaminants in the smoke can linger and stick to their fur.