Oregon lifts animal import regs amid wildfiresOregon lifts animal import regs amid wildfires

As wildfires are raging throughout the West, Oregon has granted an exemption for certain animal import requirements for those moving their pets and livestock under an evacuation order.

The state Department of Agriculture says that animals may be brought in from other states if they notify the state veterinarian by phone (503-986-4680) or email ([email protected]) within 72 hours.

According to the state, the notifications must include:

For those not eligible for the exemption, Oregon’s animal import requirements remain enforced.

The emergency exemption is effective immediately and shall remain in effect through September 30, 2022. For more information about Animal Import and Export in Oregon visit ODA online.

The exemptions come as thunderstorms and hot, windy conditions have fueled numerous wildfires in the West, including the McKinney Fire in Northern California's Klamath National Forest. The blaze exploded in size to more than 80 square miles just two days after erupting in a largely unpopulated area of Siskiyou County, according to The Associated Press. Four people have died in the fire.

Other wildfires are burning in northwestern Montana, in Oregon and in Idaho, according to media reports.