Pet owners are being warned to include their furry friends in any bushfire and emergency plans and protect them from smoke inhalation as fires rage throughout NSW.
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The Australian Veterinary Association and RSPCA on Tuesday advised owners to put together emergency kits for their animals.
"The aim is to reduce the danger, panic and stress of managing your pets in an emergency, like a sudden evacuation," The RSPCA said in a statement on Tuesday.
The kits should include registration and vaccination certificates, transportation equipment, cat litter, bedding, food and water bowls, and medications with clear instructions, the RSPCA said.
The organisation recommends pet owners check if animals are allowed at local evacuation centres before they need to evacuate.
At home, they should shut their pets inside to limit smoke inhalation and so they're close by for an easy exit when danger passes.
"If you must leave pets behind alone, leave them in a safe, secure room," the RSPCA said.
"Ideally this room would have no windows and must have adequate air, such as a big bathroom."
AVA president Julia Crawford said people should advise local vets, animal shelters and rescue organisations if separated from their pets in an evacuation.
She said fires also threatened wildlife, but it was important that people didn't risk their lives to rescue animals.
"Extra care should be taken with venomous or aggressive animals," Dr Crawford said in a statement on Tuesday.
"If you find injured or orphaned wildlife call your nearest wildlife rescue organisation or local vet."
Australian Associated Press