How to Help Animals During the Wildfire Crisis

The Summerland-area wildfires have had a devastating impact on animals across the region. The Bald Range fire forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of livestock across 146 agricultural properties, while pets, farm animals and wildlife have also been displaced or injured. Volunteer crews have rescued horses, goats, sheep, dogs and cats, while organizations such as Critteraid have moved dozens of animals to safety. The Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society’s facility near Summerland was destroyed, forcing the emergency evacuation of about 30 wildlife patients, including bats, skunks, porcupines, otters, turtles and water birds.

 

The BC SPCA is providing emergency boarding, food, crates, leashes and other supplies for evacuated animals, while its Animal Protection Officers and volunteers are helping reach animals that remain behind evacuation lines. Some rescued pets have arrived with singed fur and burned paw pads, and communities are also working to reunite lost animals with their families. The need extends beyond pets: farms and stables are being asked to provide temporary space for evacuated horses and livestock, while trailers, experienced handlers and transportation assistance remain valuable.

 

What can people in Vancouver do?

 

Donate: Financial support helps the BC SPCA provide emergency care, boarding and supplies, while donations to the Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society will help rebuild its lost facility and continue wildlife care.

 

Foster or donate supplies: Temporary foster homes, crates, carriers, leashes and unopened pet food can help free up resources for animals arriving from the Interior.

 

Help reunite animals with their families: Share verified information from the BC SPCA and local Emergency Operations Centres rather than unconfirmed social-media reports.

 

Prepare your own pets: Having food, medications, carriers and an emergency plan ready now helps reduce pressure on emergency responders if conditions worsen elsewhere in B.C.

 

For people in the Lower Mainland, the most effective help right now is simple: donate, foster where possible, share verified information and be prepared.  Do what you can at the BC SPCA Web Site.