Bushfire affected landholders needing animal welfare assistance, including emergency fodder, water and veterinary care are being urged to call the NSW Agricultural and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.

More than 50 bushfires are continuing to burn across the state, with the North Coast, Northern Tablelands and Hunter the worst affected regions.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Deputy Director General of Engagement and Industry Assistance, Brett Fifield said DPI and Local Land Services are continuing to respond to the devastating bushfires affecting almost 4,000 landholders.

“DPI and Local Land Services are continuing to work with the Rural Fire Service and other agencies to respond to the needs of the community,” Mr Fifield said.

“Our main focus and priority is to ensure the survival and welfare of animals and wildlife.

“Since the Agricultural and Animal Services Hotline opened last Tuesday, 965 calls for assistance have been received.

“A number of Animal Evacuation Centres have housed more than 3,800 animals.

“Emergency fodder points have also been established at Glen Innes Showground, DPI’s Grafton Institute, Kempsey Showground, Macksville Showground, Walcha Racecourse and Wingham Showground.

“Another two emergency fodder points will be opened tomorrow at DPI’s Wollongbar Institute and Wauchope.

“Already we have distributed 1,480 tonnes of fodder to more than 220 landholders.

“We are also working with landholders, that have a critical need for water for animal welfare purposes to deliver it or to assist with temporary repairs to infrastructure to enable a water supply.”

With the temperature expected to hit 40 degrees later this week, landholders are encouraged to have a plan to manage livestock and animals.

Landholders should:  Know the risk to themselves, their animals and property

 Know where to go

 Know who to call

 Have an emergency kit for you and your pets

 Prepare now to act early

Landholders are also reminded to act early in the event of a fire and to relocate animals and assets to a safer place on or off their property.

Landholders who need assistance with emergency fodder, livestock or domestic animal assessment should call the NSW Agricultural and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.