Well, we had a lot of plans for working on DogTipper today…then late yesterday came a cool front that brought fire danger at levels like we’ve never seen. Fires were popping up all over our area yesterday afternoon, and by 4pm we could smell smoke and we were packing up here at home as well.
Fortunately for us, the biggest fire in our area right now (they keep breaking out so we say this with paws crossed) is to our south so we’re OK. We live in the country, though, and our record drought combined with record heat has left this area pretty scary. The map at the right is from the Texas Forest Service showing active wildfires across the state. Right now, we’re not smelling smoke although we frequently hear helicopters.
We’ve packed up bags for a quick evacuation with all our dogs and cats. For now, though, we’re just keeping an eye on the coverage and especially on Twitter which has been a great resource. (Follow #centraltxfires for the latest.) We’re retweeting news applicable to pets including shelters that are accepting people and their pets.
One of the most urgent needs in the area came last night when the Bastrop animal shelter had to be evacuated; those dogs and cats were relocated to Austin. Austin Pets Alive took the shelter dogs while the Austin Humane Society took the cats. Today Austin Pets Alive has dropped their adoption fees and they’re also asking for fosters. Here’s a good article in the Austin Chronicle about the foster and adoption needs as well as supply needs.
Wherever you are, please be sure that you have an emergency plan on what to do if you are suddenly hit by a natural disaster!
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