Protecting Pets and Livestock from Volcanic Ash

Volcanic ash can pose serious risks to the health and safety of pets and livestock. During volcanic activity, it is essential to take proactive steps to minimize exposure and protect animals from harm.

During and After an Ashfall

During ashfall or when there is ash on the ground, steps should be taken to minimize an animal’s contact with ash. Keep animals, both pets and livestock, indoors as much as possible, and keep doors and windows closed. Other things to consider:

• Cover hay and feed to limit ash contamination.
• Ensure clean drinking water.
• Minimize time spent outside. If pets must go outside, keep them on a leash so you can bring them inside quickly, and limit exposure. If pets are used to them, consider the use of dog coats and booties to minimize ash contamination. Brush them off before coming back inside. Use eye protection for those with concurrent eye diseases.
• If animals become contaminated with ash:
• Brush off excess ash outside under shelter. Wipe off fur with a damp cloth, rinse or bathe, as needed, when inside.
• Check eyes for irritation; gently rinse with clean water or saline, if needed.
• Contact your veterinarian for further advice, if there are concerns.
• Place contaminated waste and ash in sealed plastic bags.

Health and Emergency Care

• Be particularly cautious with pets and livestock that have underlying skin, eye, and respiratory diseases. Consult your veterinarian for extra precautions you may be able to take.
• If animals develop any skin or eye problems, contact your veterinarian.
• Watch for signs of breathing difficulty. If symptoms appear, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

General Preparedness

Prepare for a possible evacuation. Although it is unlikely an evacuation will be needed in this case, these are general preparedness steps appropriate for any situation in which you need to leave your home unexpectedly. Evacuating with animals takes time and planning.

• Ensure you have suitable transportation available and ready for all animals.
• Pets should be accustomed to being in a crate while transported. Do not allow pets to roam freely inside vehicles during transport.
• Be sure your pets have identification on them. Microchipping is ideal.
• Have ample amounts of food and needed medications ready.
• Confirm alternative pet-friendly accommodations (e.g., with family or pet-friendly hotels).
• Subscribe to local warning systems and monitor the news for timely updates.
• Have contact information available for your veterinarian, as well as emergency veterinary hospitals.

Resources

General emergency preparedness:

• Prepare Your Pets for Disasters (Ready.gov)
• Be Prepared: Pet Safety in Emergencies (CDC)

Volcanic ash safety for pets and livestock:

• Preparing for a Volcanic Eruption (CDC)
• Volcanic Ashfall Impacts & Mitigation: Agriculture - Plants & Animals (USGS)
• Ash Alert! How to Protect Your Family, Home, and Business (Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management)