Preparing communities to protect animals in bushfires

Animals are often the forgotten victims in bushfires, with tragically, almost three billion animals killed, injured or displaced as more than 15,000 fires burned 19 million hectares of Australian land in 2019-2020.

Bushfires are a devastating reminder to prepare a disaster plan, and we are reminding people to include their animals in this plan too.

More than 150 people in Yamba attended the first of seven community events to learn how to best protect pets, farm animals and wildlife in bushfires. Join us at: 

• Tenterfield Farmers and Producers Market on 20/11/2021 from 8am
• Murwillumbah Sunday Market on 28/11/2021 from 8am
• Lismore Farmers Market on 04/12/2021 from 8am 

Ben Pearson, Interim Country Director, World Animal Protection said: 

“There was an outpouring of compassion for animals during the summer bushfires, but despite this eager support, many were unaware of how to best help wildlife and protect their pets before, during and after the fires.

“We know people want to help animals in emergencies on-the-ground, and these community events will give them the knowledge, and empower them to protect their pets, farm animals, and wildlife, before, during and after bushfires."

If you're unable to attend one of the community events, you can always watch the webinar to learn how you can protect pets, farm animals and wildlife in emergencies.

• Hear from experts in animal emergency readiness, vet and wildlife care.
• Discover the steps you can take to include animals in your emergency plan.
• Explore animal behaviour and handling in emergencies.
• Learn how to help wildlife recovery.
• Get advice from vet, wildlife and government experts.