Emergency Preparedness: Protecting Wildlife

Emergency Preparedness Fund Donor Report Summary:

At Cat Tales Wildlife Center, the safety of our animal residents is always our top priority. With wildfire threats growing across the Inland Northwest, we established the Emergency Preparedness Fund to help us act quickly and safely if evacuation becomes necessary. Thanks to your support, we’ve made progress—but we still need your help to reach our $10,000 goal.

Current Status:

• Total Goal: $10,000

• Raised to Date: $1,850

• Remaining Need: $8,150

• Number of Donors: 12

• Monthly Donors: 1

• Time Frame: 1 year

Challenge:

Wildfires continue to present a very real and growing risk. Without upgraded evacuation tools and fire prevention measures, our ability to relocate animals quickly and safely remains limited.

Solution:

Your donations are being used to tackle four key areas:

1. Specialized Transport Kennels – For safely evacuating wildlife of all sizes

2. Advanced Communication Tools – Radios and systems for fast coordination

3. Staff & Student Emergency Training – Drills and protocols for response readiness

4. Fire Prevention Measures – Including recent focus on removal of forest floor fire tinder and diseased tree clearing

Recent Updates:

Forest Floor Fuel Reduction:
Staff and volunteers have cleared approximately two full truckloads of dry debris and fire tinder from key zones bordering animal enclosures. This work is reducing highly flammable material that could act as a fire bridge during dry conditions.

Diseased Tree Removal:
We have identified and removed several dead or diseased trees close to both animal and guest access paths. These trees posed both a fall hazard and a fire risk due to dry, brittle limbs and bark. A certified contractor assisted in the safe removal of higher-risk trees.

Fire Safety Inspection:
A follow-up fire prevention inspection was completed. We received positive feedback on our improvements and additional recommendations for water access points.

Staff & Student Training:
We hosted an updated evacuation protocol training session this spring, reinforcing individual roles, animal shifting priorities, and offsite coordination in the event of a wildfire evacuation.

Supplies Procurement:
Basic evacuation supply kits and initial containment gear are now on site and ready for deployment.

Long-Term Impact:

• Protection: Early actions reduce wildfire spread and evacuation stress

• Preparedness: Our team gains confidence and clarity during high-stakes situations

• Resilience: These improvements protect our sanctuary now and into the future

• Leadership: We aim to model best practices for other sanctuaries facing similar risks

How You Can Help:

• Donate: Every dollar brings us closer to our $10,000 goal

• Share: Help spread awareness of our preparedness mission

• Join Monthly: Become a recurring donor and support year-round safety

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed so far. Your support is creating real, tangible change—making our sanctuary safer for every animal that calls it home.

With heartfelt thanks,
Deborah Wyche & the Cat Tales Team