Plan ahead and include your pets in your plans if you live in a fire risk area.

The clinic offers day boarding during the high fire risk season so that your animals will be safe if you work in an area which doesn't allow you to quickly evacuate your pets in the event of a fire.

Remember that animals have instincts which may cause them to flee in the event of a fire, storm or other natural disaster, so early evacuation is essential. Keep animals under control - dogs on leashes, cats and small animals in cages or pillowcases, birds in a cage covered by wet hessian or towel, and fish in a jar two-thirds filled with water (if covering with a lid, regularly aerate the water by blowing through a straw).

If animals are left at home, put them inside a small room with preferably no windows and provide food and water. Water bowls should be heavy enough to avoid being tipped over (alternatively a slow dripping tap can supply a constant supply of water). Make sure all pets are properly identified, preferably microchipped and with an ID tag. Never leave animals in a vehicle. Leave a note for emergency services about the type and number of pets, and your contact details.

After the disaster, surroundings will have changed and animals can be disoriented and frightened. Take care when releasing them, and do so in a confined area to avoid their escape.