Wildfires happen suddenly, and during Arizona’s hot, dry summers you need to be ready. If your area is under threat and you’re told to evacuate, it’s crucial to be prepared—not just for your family’s sake, but for your pets, too. Whether it’s a small brush fire or a large-scale blaze, acting quickly can make all the difference.
Preparation is key, and while fire departments and news outlets primarily focus on preparing local residents for evacuation, it’s just as important to have a plan in place for your pets. The last thing you want during an emergency is to be scrambling around or looking for a frightened pet that’s hiding. Having a plan helps keep every family member—including the furry ones—safe.
Here’s how to keep your pets safe if you ever face a wildfire evacuation.
What to Do Before Fire Season
Pack an Emergency Kit
Just like you’d pack an emergency kit for your family, your pets need their own supplies, too. Start with:
- Food and water (3-5 days’ worth)
- Bowls, leash, and collar with ID tags
- Medications and any ongoing treatment instructions
- Copies of vaccination records
- A sturdy carrier or crate
- Poop bags, litter box, or puppy pads
- A blanket or favorite toy for comfort
Store the kit in an easy-to-grab location near the door. You don’t want to waste time gathering essentials if a fire is approaching.
Know Where You Can Go
Not all shelters or hotels accept pets. Part of being prepared means identifying pet-friendly options in advance. Bookmark a few nearby locations that welcome animals. You can also check with friends or relatives who might be able to take your pets temporarily.
Stay Alert and Informed
Download a local emergency alert app, follow your county’s emergency management office, and sign up for evacuation notices. The more notice you have, the more time you’ll have to safely evacuate with your pets.
What to Do If an Evacuation Happens
Take Your Pets with You
If officials call for an evacuation, secure your pets immediately. Even if you think you’ll be back soon, don’t risk it. Wildfires move quickly, and can change direction without warning.
If you’re not home when an evacuation happens:
- Ask a trusted neighbor or nearby friend to step in
- Place a pet rescue alert sticker on your windows to notify emergency responders that pets are inside
In Case You Get Separated
Emergencies can be chaotic, and despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance you and your pet could get separated. Taking a few precautions ahead of time can greatly increase the chances of a safe reunion.
Here’s what to do:
- Make sure your pet is microchipped and that your contact information is up to date
- Keep a current photo of your pet on your phone
- Attach an ID tag to your pet’s collar that includes your contact information
- Consider using an AirTag or GPS tracker on your pet’s collar for real-time location updates
After the Evacuation
Be Patient and Monitor Your Pets
Returning home doesn’t always mean everything is back to normal. Your pet may be stressed, anxious, or disoriented—especially if they were exposed to smoke or alarmed by the noise of sirens and helicopters.
Watch out for warning signs like:
- Labored breathing or coughing
- Lack of appetite
- Unusual hiding or clinginess
- Vomiting or diarrhea
These can be signs of stress, smoke inhalation, or exposure to fire-related irritants. If you have any concerns at all, please bring your pet in for a checkup.
We’re Here for You If You Need Veterinary Care
At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we care deeply about your pet’s safety, especially during emergencies. If you need help preparing a pet emergency plan, have questions about microchipping, or need a checkup after an emergency, just let us know.
Stay safe, stay ready, and give your pets a little extra love during wildfire season.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 5/27/2025