In Pasadena, California, a pitbull mix named Canela was found in the ashes, struggling to breathe from smoke and walking on hot debris. A kind person discovered him lying in the rubble in Altadena, wrapped him in a blanket, and rushed him to the Pasadena Humane Society.
Canela, too weak to stand at first, was later reunited with his owner, thanks to CNN’s coverage of this heroic rescue. He continues to receive medical treatment and is one of more than 400 animals brought to Pasadena Humane since the Southern California wildfires began last week.
As the fires have devastated parts of the region, rescuers have helped not just dogs, but also horses, donkeys, goats, and other animals that were caught in the disaster. Animal shelters, veterinarians, and rescue teams have worked together to care for displaced pets and livestock.
A Growing Crisis for Animals
The Humane Society began by offering temporary shelter to pets when families evacuated, but the fires’ scale has made it clear that many of these animals won’t be going home soon. Some animals are arriving badly injured, like a Husky with burned paws and fur.
“We’re now seeing more injured animals,” said Dia DuVernet, president of Pasadena Humane. “Some families thought they’d be back home soon, but now they have nowhere to return to, and we’re turning into a long-term shelter.”
One of the saddest cases involved a dog that came in so exhausted from the fires, it couldn’t even lift its head. Though it didn’t have an owner come back for it, the dog is showing signs of recovery.
Rescuing Animals in the Fire Zone
Pasadena Humane is working hard to rescue animals still trapped in the burn areas, even helping animals like peacocks that have been hurt by the fires. They’ve been helping a man in Altadena who couldn’t reach his farm animals because the fire destroyed a bridge. The team has been figuring out how to get water to cows and sheep in danger of dying from dehydration.
Thanks to donations from the community, the shelter has been able to fill five U-Haul trucks with supplies to help both the animals and the people who are rescuing them.
Equestrian Center Helps Horses and Donkeys
Meanwhile, in nearby Burbank, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center has become a safe place for about 400 animals, mostly horses, but also a few donkeys. Some animals arrived with their owners who had to evacuate their homes, while others were rescued by police.
“People here love their horses,” said Leigh Anne Claywell, manager of the center. “It’s always been a place for horses.” Many of the animals were stressed, but they started to settle into new routines with the help of volunteers who came to feed, walk, and care for them.
When fire evacuation orders were lifted, some owners were able to return to take their animals home. Karrie Saydah, who had evacuated her two donkeys and two horses, was relieved to find them safe at the equestrian center.
“I was so scared when I had to leave in the middle of the night,” she said. “But the volunteers have been amazing, and my animals loved all the treats!”
A Community Coming Together
In the midst of these tragic wildfires, the kindness and support shown by the community has been heartwarming. From providing shelter to feeding both animals and humans, volunteers have stepped up to ensure the safety of pets and livestock. As the fires continue, animal rescue efforts remain a crucial part of the recovery, bringing hope and help to those affected.
