With multiple wildfires threatening the area and a local state of emergency declared, animals are likely to die if they’re abandoned. This information will undoubtedly save many animals’ lives and avoid much human remorse.

Should evacuations become necessary, small animals such as cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, and gerbils should be placed securely in carriers (birds should be covered) and dogs should be kept on a secure harness and leash. Take enough food for your animals to last several days. Horses, sheep, cows, llamas, and other large animals should never be locked in stalls or otherwise confined, unable to flee the flames. If it’s impossible to remove them, they should be freed so that they can attempt to survive. Anyone who sees animals in danger or distress should assist if possible, but if they’re unable to help, they should note their exact location and alert authorities immediately.

Residents in areas affected by smoke and falling ash should keep animals indoors and avoid all outdoor activities, such as running with dogs. Anyone who evacuates and intentionally abandons animals to fend for themselves may be prosecuted.

PETA reminds everyone to make plans to ensure the safety of all animal companions in advance of trouble in order to avoid being caught unprepared.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information, please visit PETA.org, listen to The PETA Podcast, or follow the group on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, or Instagram.