Wildfires that have struck Avila, Toledo and the Community of Madrid have left thousands of hectares burned, numerous families evacuated and a less visible crisis: pets and livestock suffering burns, smoke inhalation, severe stress and injuries sustained during evacuations.
In response, the Official College of Veterinarians of Madrid, known as Colvema, has activated an emergency arrangement with the regional Ministry of Environment, Agriculture and Interior to ensure that affected pets can receive veterinary care at no cost to their owners.
The cost of services will be covered within the joint scheme set up by the two institutions. Colvema has called for voluntary participation from clinics, veterinary hospitals and private practitioners working in the affected municipalities. Those who sign up will be included in a list sent to the regional government so that residents know which centres are offering the special coverage.
The initiative covers fifteen municipalities hit hardest by the fires: Aldea del Fresno, Cadalso de los Vidrios, Cenicientos, Chapineria, Colmenar del Arroyo, Fresnedillas de la Oliva, Navalagamella, Navas del Rey, Pelayos de la Presa, Robledo de Chavela, Rozas de Puerto Real, San Martin de Valdeiglesias, Valdemaqueda, Villa del Prado and Zarzalejo.
The scheme covers dogs and cats and also includes specific measures for large animals, particularly horses and livestock, through coordination with specialist groups.
Beyond treating wounds
Veterinarians responding to the emergency have been treating burns, respiratory problems from smoke inhalation, severe dehydration, heatstroke and injuries from flight. They are also helping to identify lost animals and reunite them with their owners, and assessing the health of animals kept in temporary shelters.
Evacuating horses, donkeys and livestock involves specialist transport, secure spaces and ongoing veterinary checks to detect injuries that may not be immediately visible, according to the college.
Specialists have noted that many animals show significant behavioural changes after experiencing such events, with fear, stress and anxiety potentially lasting for weeks. They recommended veterinary follow-up even when no physical injuries are apparent.
In a statement, Colvema thanked the swift response of Madrid veterinarians and the cooperation of animal protection groups, social organisations and public authorities taking part in the effort. The college said it had also set up an administrative procedure to handle billing for the participating centres.
