GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – As wildfires and extreme weather continue to affect communities across Colorado, the American Red Cross of Western Colorado is sounding the alarm: don’t forget about your pets when disaster strikes.
June is Pet Preparedness Month, and officials are urging families to include their furry companions in emergency planning.
The Forgotten Family Members
“Pets rely on us in an emergency,” said Christie Caster, Executive Director of the Red Cross’s Western Colorado chapter. “When you pack a go-bag for your family, include things for your pet—water, food, bowls, and a first aid kit.”
With the summer months often bringing increased wildfire risk, sudden evacuations are a real possibility. And for families with animals, being unprepared can mean difficult choices.
What to Pack in a Pet Go-Bag
Caster recommends assembling a kit specifically for your pet that includes:
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Food and water for several days
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Portable bowls
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Pet medications
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Copies of vaccination records
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Leashes, harnesses, and crates
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Waste bags or litter
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A comfort item, like a favorite toy or blanket
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Pet first aid kit
She also emphasized that keeping a collar and ID tag on your pet at all times is essential, especially during emergencies when animals may flee or become separated from their owners.
High-Tech Help for Pet Owners
To make planning easier, the Red Cross offers a Pet First Aid app, available for download on both iOS and Android. The app provides step-by-step emergency care instructions for dogs and cats and offers tips on preparing evacuation plans that include pets.
An online course in cat and dog first aid is also available through the Red Cross, offering training in everything from treating wounds to recognizing signs of heatstroke.
The Takeaway: Plan Ahead
In past Colorado emergencies—wildfires, flash floods, and winter storms—many pet owners found themselves scrambling. With a little foresight, the Red Cross hopes fewer families will be forced to choose between their safety and their animals.
“Pets are part of our family,” Caster said. “They deserve to be protected just like any other loved one.”
