A solid third of the United States is experiencing barely controlled or totally uncontrolled wildfires right now. The air is toxic. Housing, buildings, farms, and wild lands are being swallowed up by flames daily. Every state experiencing fires is struggling to fight them and keep their people safe. But in this horrifying mayhem, we can't forget about the animals!
Sign the pledge to support efforts helping as many animals as possible survive these fires!
In some cases, housepets have been abandoned to die. One thing that would help is if emergency shelters and hotels all allowed for pets to come along. No one should have to choose between their own life and their companion animals. Let's make sure all pets can come with their humans during evacuation by allowing animals in emergency shelters!
Farm animals are also being left behind in many cases. While evacuating farm animals is more difficult to do quickly, people left with this choice should at least leave water and food out and gates open so their animals have a fighting chance if fire does reach them. Additionally, firefighters should move to protect life over property, always.
Lastly, we need to do all we can to help wild animals survive this scary time! Everyone who lives anywhere near fires should leave out buckets of water for animals. They are so scared and some, in states like Oregon where they are less accustomed to wildfires, will be extremely disoriented. Leaving water -- and food when possible -- is the least locals can do to help the scared animals running for their lives. On that same note, no one should leave their own animals like dogs outside. Wild animals like coyotes are scared, hungry and on the run -- there's no reason to put your own pet in danger.
If we all act together, we can help as many animals as possible make it through these tragic fires. The destruction and death happening to humans and animals alike is staggering. Let's band together and make sure the living beings without voices of their own are not forgotten!
