CEO and owner of Hanrob Pet Hotels Andrew Biggs said it was important to ensure pets could be identified easily, especially during bushfire season. 

“This means making sure they are microchipped and adding details such as your phone number to their collars,” he said. 

“Pets are safest in a secure room, or in a pet carrier [if you have to leave your house].”

Whether you choose to relocate your pets during high risk days or keep them at home with you, it’s important to know how to protect them and keep them cool. 

Here are some basic steps you can follow to help keep your pets safe and sound. 

Decide whether you’re going to keep your pets at home or if you’re going to move them elsewhere during days of high fire risk.

Make a list of where your pets could stay if you decide to leave early, such as with a family member/ friend or in a boarding kennel.

Make sure you have prepared a pet relocation kit. This includes food and water, bowls, carriers where appropriate, a favourite toy, bedding and a blanket, any medications they need and your vet’s contact details.

If your pets are staying with you, secure them indoors on a lead or in a carrier and keep plenty of water and woolen blankets handy. 

Animals can sense danger and could easily become stressed. Keep a watch on them and reassure them. Birds should be caged with a covering (damp towel) over it, leave appropriate food and water in the room / cage.

Keep your pets cool by wiping them down with a wet towel.

For RFS guidelines on how to keep your pets safe, click here.