Some animals do die in the flames of wildfires, mostly the elderly and very young animals who can’t escape. Smaller animals take cover in logs, under rocks, or by burying themselves in the dirt. Some animal predators even capitalize on the fire, and have been observed hunting smaller animals who are fleeing the fire.

When an animal inhales smoke, it brings a combination of toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, and particulate matter, a mixture of small liquid and solid particles, into its throat, nose and lungs.

Smoke inhalation is a serious medical condition and should not be taken lightly. Chemicals released from burned materials such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and cyanide are dangerous and poisonous for your pet. Inhalation of these chemicals can result in severe lung injury, burnt airways and death.

A reaction to fire is a result of their survival instinct which they associate with heat that can harm them. Not all animals are afraid of fire. A bear chose to investigate the smell of smoke they relate it with food in a campsite.

Provide and maintain corridors of habitat between tracts of land, especially those that connect to water. Construct brush piles to give cover to small birds and mammals. Retain or create dead or dying trees (snags) for the many birds, mammals, and insects that need them.

If animals can’t be evacuated, here are a few things you can do to keep them safe:

1. Remove blankets, collars, halters, and fly masks.
2. Give them as much space as possible, without allowing access to any roads.
3. Fill all water bowls or troughs.
4. Turn on any sprinkler so the animal has a moist refuge.

The land gets most of its moisture in the fall and winter months, and the vegetation spends most of spring and summer drying out, essentially fueling and spreading fires. Another factor is the high population — between its national parks, campers, and parties, sometimes fires end up going unextinguished.