Emergency Preparedness: Protecting Wildlife

Emergency Preparedness Fund — Donor Report Summary

October 2025 Update

At Cat Tales Wildlife Center, the safety and well-being of our animal residents remain our highest priority. With wildfire threats continuing to increase across the Inland Northwest, our Emergency Preparedness Fund was created to help us act quickly and safely if evacuation ever becomes necessary.

While we have made meaningful progress, we still have a long way to go — and your support is more critical than ever.

Current Status

• Total Goal: $10,000

• Raised to Date: $1,850

• Remaining Need: $8,150

• Number of Donors: 12

• Monthly Donors: 1

• Campaign Duration: 1 year

Despite early momentum, we have not received new donations since March 2025, leaving vital portions of the plan incomplete as we move into another dry season.

The Challenge

Each year, wildfires edge closer to populated areas and wildlife sanctuaries like ours. Without upgraded evacuation tools and strengthened prevention measures, our ability to relocate animals quickly and safely remains limited.

This isn’t just about fire—it’s about readiness, coordination, and ensuring that every animal in our care can be protected when time is short and conditions are unpredictable.

How Donations Are Used

Your contributions directly support four key areas of emergency preparedness:

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

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

3. Staff & Student Emergency Training – Drills and protocol reinforcement for quick, confident responses

4. Fire Prevention Measures – Clearing fire tinder, removing diseased trees, and maintaining defensible space

Recent Progress

Forest Floor Fuel Reduction:
Our team removed approximately 7.5 tons of dry debris and underbrush from critical zones bordering animal enclosures—reducing highly flammable materials that could act as “fire bridges” in dry conditions.

Diseased Tree Removal:
Several dead and diseased trees near animal and guest areas were safely removed with the help of a certified contractor, decreasing fall hazards and potential fire spread.

Fire Safety Inspection:
A follow-up inspection praised our proactive work and provided new guidance for expanding water access points around the property.

Staff & Student Training:
We hosted an updated evacuation drill this fall, clarifying individual responsibilities, animal shifting priorities, and offsite coordination procedures.

Supplies Procurement:
Initial evacuation supply kits and containment gear are now staged and ready for immediate use in an emergency.

Long-Term Impact

• Protection: Reduces fire risk and evacuation stress for animals and staff

• Preparedness: Builds team confidence and response efficiency

• Resilience: Safeguards the sanctuary through changing seasons and conditions

• Leadership: Serves as a model for other sanctuaries facing similar wildfire risks

How You Can Help

• Donate Today: Every contribution—large or small—brings us closer to our $10,000 goal.

• Join as a Monthly Supporter: Ongoing gifts strengthen long-term safety and preparedness.

• Share Our Story: Help raise awareness by sharing this report with others who care about wildlife safety.

We are deeply grateful to those who have already given. Your generosity has created visible, measurable progress toward a safer future for the animals.

With your renewed support, we can continue building the infrastructure and readiness our sanctuary needs to stand strong against the growing wildfire threat.

With heartfelt thanks,
Deborah Wyche & the Cat Tales Team