As devastating wildfires continue to impact California, including the recent Palisades and Los Angeles County fires, many pet owners are facing unique challenges in protecting their furry family members from the harmful effects of smoke, ash, and evacuation stress. At Cleo&Hooman, as an LA-based brand dedicated to pet wellness, we want to help pet parents understand how to safeguard their companions during these emergencies.
Here's a detailed guide tailored for pet owners affected by the fires, with actionable steps and credible resources to help your pets remain safe and healthy.
What to Do Immediately to Protect Your Pet
Relocate to a Safe Area
- If your neighborhood is under evacuation orders or has poor air quality, move your pets indoors or to a safer location immediately.
- Utilize pet-friendly evacuation shelters or hotels. The LA Equestrian Center (Burbank) and Agoura Animal Care Center are actively accommodating pets displaced by the fires.
Create a Smoke-Free Zone at Home
- Designate an area in your home with the cleanest air possible. Use HEPA air purifiers to reduce indoor smoke levels.
- Keep windows and doors sealed and avoid lighting candles, which can worsen air quality.
Limit Outdoor Activities
- Avoid walking your pets outdoors or engaging in prolonged outdoor activities. Ash and smoke particles are harmful to their respiratory systems.
- For bathroom breaks, keep trips brief and wipe their paws afterward to prevent ash exposure.
How Smoke Affects Pets
The smoke from California wildfires contains fine particles that can irritate your pet's respiratory system and exacerbate existing conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Labored breathing or excessive panting
- Red, watery eyes or irritation
- Coughing, sneezing, or wheezing
- Lethargy or fatigue
- Vomiting or loss of appetite
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. The California Veterinary Medical Board advises pet owners to act quickly to prevent long-term damage to their pets’ health during wildfire season.
Immediate Care for Pets Exposed to Smoke and Ash
Clean Your Pet’s Fur
- Gently wipe (Like our Zoomie Wipes) your pet’s fur, paws, and face with damp cloths or pet-safe wipes to remove any ash or soot. Avoid over-washing as it can dry out their skin.
Provide Fresh Water
- Encourage hydration by refilling water bowls often. Dehydration exacerbates the effects of smoke inhalation.
Protect Their Paws
- Walking on ash-covered or hot ground can irritate your pet's paws. Use a balm/lotion like our Bark Butter to soothe irritation and create a protective barrier.
Emergency Preparedness for LA Pet Owners
With California’s wildfire season becoming more severe, it’s essential to have a plan in place for your pets. Here’s what to include in your emergency kit:
- Pet food and water: At least three days’ supply.
- Medical records and prescriptions: Keep hard copies and digital backups.
- Pet carrier: Large enough for your pet to move comfortably.
- First aid supplies: Include pet-safe antiseptics and bandages.
- Comfort items: Familiar toys or blankets to reduce anxiety.
For detailed instructions, refer to resources like Ready.gov’s Pet Preparedness Guide and the American Red Cross Disaster Preparedness for Pets.
Local Resources for LA Pet Owners
The following facilities are actively supporting pet evacuations and care during the wildfires:
-
Westwood Recreation Center (Los Angeles)
1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
Pet-friendly evacuation shelter. -
LA Equestrian Center (Burbank)
480 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91506
Open for large animal evacuations. -
Agoura Animal Care Center (Agoura Hills)
29525 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Small animal shelter for pets in need.
For ongoing updates, visit the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Alerts Page: LAFD Alerts.
How Cleo&Hooman Is Helping
At Cleo&Hooman, we’re committed to supporting the LA community during this time. We’ve partnered with St. Barks to provide donations of essential supplies, including dog food, pee pads, blankets, and water. If you’d like to contribute, please drop off supplies at St. Barks or recommend donations to your nearest rescue organization.
We’re also offering our Zoomie Wipes and Bark Butter to help soothe pets exposed to ash and smoke. These products are specifically formulated with vet- and dermatologist-approved ingredients to provide relief and protection.
Key Takeaways for Pet Safety During the Fires
- Monitor Your Pet's Health: Be vigilant for symptoms of smoke inhalation or stress.
- Reduce Exposure: Limit outdoor activities and clean your pet’s fur and paws regularly.
- Stay Prepared: Have an emergency kit ready and know the nearest pet-friendly evacuation shelters.
- Offer Support: Share resources and assist your community through donations or fostering.
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the fires, and we’re here to help however we can. Together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our furry friends during these challenging times.
