Bushfire emergency: What to to with pets, livestock

Emergency survival items

• Food: At least three days' worth of non-perishable food (canned or dried) in an airtight, waterproof container
• Water: At least three days' worth of water
• Medicines: Store in a waterproof container, as well as any special dietary needs or supplements
• Veterinary/medical records: Store copies of any medical and vaccination records in a watertight container including your vet's name and telephone number
• First aid kit: Store extra cotton bandage rolls, bandage tapes, scissors, tweezers and latex gloves in addition to those required for yourself
• Blanket/bedding: Familiar items like a favourite blanket or toys can help reduce stress
• Sanitation: Useful items include newspapers, paper towels, plastic bags, gloves and household bleach (to dilute) to clean

Identification

• Collar or tag: Ensure that your animal's name, your name, phone number and, if there is room, your address are clearly visible
• Register and microchip: Ensure your animal is registered and their microchip details are current
• Photograph: Store a current photograph of your animal in a waterproof container, including notes on: distinguishing features, name, sex, age, colour and breed. Also include a photograph of you and your animal together as this helps prove ownership
• Back up: Save microchip details, medical and veterinary details, key contact details and all photographs electronically

Equipment

• Sturdy lead, harness or muzzle: plus any other equipment that will help control your animal Evacuation Centres may not accept pets and larger animals inside due to health and safety regulations and consideration of other people. Guide and disability support dogs are accepted. Plan to take your animals to a suitable friend or family member's house in a safer location.
• Cages or carrier: This is to transport your animal safely and ensure they cannot escape. Ensure it is large enough to enable them to stand, turn and lie down.

If you are evacuated

Livestock and large animals

Questions to consider when planning for an emergency

• Are you able to sufficiently care for your stock for 3-7 days, or longer in a prolonged fire emergency?
• Are your feed/fodder supplies sufficient, safe and accessible for your livestock?
• Do you have a safe place on your property for livestock?
• Are animal houses/sheds protected?
• Do you have basic medical supplies and rescue equipment?

Are your livestock identifiable?

• Can you relocate your animals quickly?
• What safe transport options and routes do you have (including backup options)? If not, what are the alternatives to moving them?
• Do you have alternate water and power sources? Are your water supplies protected from fire?
• Can your biosecurity be maintained?
• Can a neighbour or friend enact your plan if you are not home?

• Assisting primary producers, animal holding establishments and the community to be prepared for bushfires
• Coordinating rescue, evacuation and emergency care for animals
• Coordinating assessment, humane destruction and disposal of affected animals
• Supporting recovery arrangements including providing impact damage assessments and contributing to recovery centres and committees