Pasadena Animal Shelter Responds to Wildfire Crisis by Taking in Over 300 Animals

An animal shelter located in Pasadena has recently taken in more than 300 animals as wildfires in the Los Angeles region have prompted evacuation orders for approximately 179,000 residents. The fires, which started on Tuesday, have tragically resulted in the deaths of at least five individuals and have caused widespread devastation, with thousands of structures either burned or at risk.

The situation remains critical as the fires continue to burn, lacking adequate containment two days into the crisis, leading to an overwhelming demand for firefighting resources. Pasadena Humane reported on social media that they are witnessing an influx of animals arriving with burns and other injuries. The wounded animals are receiving intensive care, including pain relief, wound treatment, fluids, and oxygen support when necessary.

To manage the situation effectively, the shelter is collaborating with various other shelters across California that have agreed to accept animals that were previously under their care, allowing Pasadena Humane to focus on pets directly impacted by the wildfires. In addition, the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control has made available a directory of shelters for pet owners looking for safe havens for their animals during the evacuations.

Marcia Mayeda, the Director of DACC, emphasized the importance of animals as family members, assuring that efforts are being made to keep them safe until they can return to their homes. For pet owners with large animals, instructions were provided to relocate them to an equestrian center in Woodland Hills.

One local resident, forced to evacuate due to the Eaton Fire, managed to return to her property to rescue her chickens, highlighting the dedication of pet owners to their animals. Additionally, the spcaLA Pet Adoption Center in Los Angeles has stepped in to care for pets belonging to some of the evacuees. Meanwhile, AirNow.gov cautions that smoke from the wildfires poses significant health risks to pets, particularly vulnerable populations like puppies, senior dogs, and birds.