As wildfires rage across Los Angeles and surrounding areas, countless pets and wildlife find themselves displaced and in need of urgent care.
Families are fleeing their homes, leaving shelters and rescue organizations overwhelmed as they work tirelessly to save these vulnerable animals.
Whether you’re in California or thousands of miles away, there are meaningful ways you can make a difference.
Here’s how you can lend a helping hand to animals affected by the Los Angeles wildfires:
Table of Contents
Support Local Animal Shelters
Many shelters, such as Pasadena Humane, LA County Animal Care and Control, and SPCALA, are overwhelmed with animals displaced by the wildfires. These shelters rely on donations to provide food, medical care, and shelter for the influx of pets.
In addition to monetary donations, consider calling ahead to see if they need supplies like wet or dry pet food, blankets, or carriers. Even small contributions can make a significant difference.
Foster Displaced Animals
Shelters often face overcrowding during emergencies, and fostering an animal can free up vital space for those in urgent need.
Programs like those offered by the SPCA allow you to temporarily house pets until they can be reunited with their owners or adopted.
Even a short-term commitment of a few weeks can relieve stress on shelter resources and give animals a more comfortable environment.
Adopt a Pet in Need
Free up shelter space by adopting a homeless pet.
Many shelters are waiving or reducing adoption fees during emergencies.
Check local shelters like LA Animal Services or SPCALA, and take this opportunity to bring a furry companion into your life while making a tangible difference.
Reshare Lost Pet Notices
Use social media or platforms like PawBoost to amplify lost pet alerts and help reconnect owners with their pets.
Provide Fresh Water
With wildfires displacing both pets and wildlife, access to clean water can be a challenge.
If you live near affected areas, consider placing water bowls outside your home. This small but impactful gesture can provide a much-needed resource to thirsty animals searching for shelter and sustenance.
Assist Wildlife Rescue Efforts
Wildfires often destroy vast areas of natural habitat, leaving wildlife vulnerable and in need of care.
Organizations like the California Wildlife Center and the California Wildlife Foundation work to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife affected by these disasters.
Donations of time, money, or supplies can help these groups continue their vital work.
Support Pet Food Drives
Contribute to local drives, such as the one hosted by Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena, to supply food for pets affected by the wildfires.
Donate to Emergency Relief Funds
Help organizations like the World Animal Protection Fund or the Humane Society’s Emergency Animal Relief Fund to ensure they have resources to respond effectively.
Volunteer with Strike Teams
Shelters like Pasadena Humane have “strike teams” that check on pets left behind in fire zones.
Volunteering with these teams, or supporting their efforts with donations, can ensure that pets receive food, water, and care until they can be reunited with their families.
Help with Specialized Rescue Efforts
Offer support to unique groups like Bunny World Foundation, which cares for evacuated rabbits, or Viva Rescue, which helps rescue larger animals like horses.
One comment
I m watching with the last one was rolling up The officers some taking fire furiously
I m watching with the last one was rolling up The officers some taking fire furiously