Crisis Care

Whether it's wildfire, flood, hurricane, or drought, when natural disasters strike wild animals are often caught in the chaos, struggling to survive as their habitats are destroyed or altered. While we can’t prevent these disasters, we can take steps to reduce harm, support wildlife in crisis, and make our homes and communities safer for both people and animals.

Before the Disaster:

Create a safe yard:

• Leave areas of natural cover such as shrubs, thickets, and log piles for shelter.

• Avoid trimming trees or removing brush during nesting or breeding seasons.

• Keep pet food, trash, and chemicals secured. These become even more tempting to stressed wildlife during emergencies.

Know your local wildlife rehabilitators:

• Save the numbers and websites of local wildlife rescue centers.

• Animal Help Now can help you find local aid.

• Learn to recognize signs of distress or injury in animals:

  • Disorientation

  • Visible wounds

  • Inability to flee

Build an emergency kit:

• A towel

• Gloves

• A ventilated box or carrier

• Contact information for wildlife professionals

During the Disaster:

Do not put yourself at risk. Wildlife should never be rescued at the expense of human safety. Wait for clear, stable conditions before attempting any rescue.

Watch for displaced or injured animals:

• After fires, floods, or storms, you may see animals in unusual places, like yards, roadways, or porches.

• They may be frightened, exhausted, or injured. Keep pets indoors and observe quietly from a distance.

Provide temporary help:

• Place shallow bowls of water in shaded, safe areas (especially during heatwaves or droughts).

• If food is scarce due to habitat destruction, clean feeders can support some species, but avoid offering processed or human food.

• Create shelter using overturned boxes, covered porch areas, or brush piles.

For trapped animals:

• Check sheds, pools, storm drains, and debris piles for animals seeking shelter or caught in the aftermath.

• Use gentle ramps or call a rehabilitator for help.

After the Disaster:

Leave your yard wild for a while:

• Let vegetation regrow before mowing or clearing. Wildlife may use fallen branches or brush piles for nesting or shelter.

• If a tree has fallen but doesn’t pose a hazard, consider leaving it in place temporarily as it may offer important refuge.

Keep cats and dogs indoors.
Displaced or weakened wildlife are especially vulnerable to roaming pets. Keeping your animals secure protects everyone.

Help reconnect young animals with parents:
If you find baby animals alone, they may not be orphaned. Follow species-specific guidance before intervening.

Volunteer or donate:
Wildlife centers may be overwhelmed during disaster recovery. Donations of towels, gloves, medical supplies, or funds can go a long way.

Important Safety Tips

• Never feed wildlife processed foods like bread or crackers.

• Do not attempt to relocate wildlife far from where they were found.

• If an animal is severely injured, covered in soot or oil, or showing abnormal behavior, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

Natural Disasters Impact Everyone

Whether it’s a wildfire forcing animals to flee, a hurricane flooding burrows and nests, or a drought drying up food and water sources, wildlife often struggle silently through the aftermath of disasters. By offering shelter, water, or safe space, you can make a life-saving difference.