How the LA Fires Are Impacting Pets and Wildlife and How You Can Help
The fires raging across Los Angeles have left countless families displaced, homes destroyed, and communities struggling to recover. But amid these struggles, there’s another group of innocent victims—our pets and wildlife. From injured animals to displaced species, the impact of these fires on the animal kingdom has been devastating.
If you’re an animal lover, pet owner, or someone who cares about wildlife, you can make a real difference. Here’s a look at how the fires are affecting animals and some steps you can take to help.
The Impact on Household Pets
When evacuation orders rise, many families have limited time to gather their belongings and evacuate. Tragically, pets are often left behind in the chaos or cannot be transported safely with their owners. Here’s how pets are being affected:
- Displacement: Pets separated from their families during evacuation often end up wandering the streets, scared and vulnerable.
- Smoke inhalation and injuries: Like humans, animals suffer from smoke exposure, respiratory distress, and burn injuries. Veterinary hospitals and rescue organizations are working overtime to care for these animals.
- Stress and trauma: Being uprooted from their homes takes an emotional toll on pets, causing anxiety and behavioral issues that require long-term care.
The Challenges Facing Wildlife
Native wildlife in the Los Angeles area also faces immense challenges during wildfires. These animals are caught in fast-moving flames with little to no warning, and the fires destroy their natural habitats.
- Loss of habitat: Fires devastate forests, grasslands, and waterways that animals rely on for food and shelter.
- Migration and disorientation: Animals escaping the flames often wander into urban areas, risking encounters with cars, humans, and unfamiliar threats.
- Food scarcity: Burned landscapes make it nearly impossible for wildlife to find their usual sources of food, leaving them hungry and desperate.
How You Can Help
While the situation is heartbreaking, there are numerous ways you can lend a hand to support pets and wildlife in need. Whether through donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every action you take makes an impact.
1. Donate to Rescue Organizations
Rescue organizations are on the frontlines, working tirelessly to save and care for animals impacted by the fires. Donations help fund medical treatments, food, shelter, and rescue efforts. Consider supporting these trusted organizations:
- Pasadena Humane Society: Specializes in rescuing and rehoming pets in need during emergencies.
- Humane Society Emergency Animal Rescue Fund: Provides critical aid to animals affected by disasters like wildfires.
- Animal Wellness Foundation: Offers emergency relief, food, and medical assistance for animals affected by the fires.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Rescue shelters and animal organizations are overwhelmed, especially during times of crisis. Volunteering your time can be just as valuable as a donation. Help by:
- Assisting with rescues and evacuations.
- Caring for animals in shelters or foster homes.
- Helping with administrative tasks to keep rescue operations running smoothly.
Reach out directly to local shelters or organizations near you to see how you can get involved.
3. Foster or Adopt Animals
Shelters are operating at maximum capacity during wildfire season. By fostering or adopting a pet, you’re providing a loving home and freeing up space for other animals in need. Reach out to the Animal Wellness Foundation’s foster network to learn more about how you can temporarily house an animal.
4. Provide Supplies
If you’re unable to volunteer or foster, you can still support by donating supplies. Items like pet food, crates, blankets, and medical supplies are in high demand. Many shelters have wish lists or drop-off centers to accept these donations.
5. Spread Awareness
Never underestimate the power of raising awareness. Share posts from rescue organizations on social media, inform your friends and family about ways they can help, and encourage your network to donate or volunteer.
6. Prepare for Emergencies
If you’re a pet owner, ensure you’re prepared for future evacuations to keep your furry family members safe. Keep a pet emergency kit on hand, including:
- Food and water for several days.
- A leash, harness, and carrier.
- Any necessary medications.
- Important documents like vaccination records.
7. Additional Resources
- California Animal Response Emergency Support via CARES Facebook
- California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection / CAL FIRE
- Los Angeles County Emergency Animal Shelter Information: Los Angeles County Fires
- Los Angeles County resource page for residents
- Residents in unincorporated communities can report urgent requests 24/7 by calling 800-675-4357.
- Learn what to pack in your #DisasterReady kit to ensure you and your animals are safe
A Final Word
The fires in Los Angeles serve as a stark reminder of how much animals rely on us during disasters. While the devastation may feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember the profound impact we can have when we come together to help pets and wildlife in need.
Please consider donating, volunteering, or fostering today. Whether it’s a financial contribution or a few hours of your time, every act of kindness helps bring hope and relief to these innocent creatures.
Make a Difference Today:
- Donate to Pasadena Humane Society
- Support the Humane Society Emergency Animal Rescue Fund
- Help animals through the Animal Wellness Foundation
Together, we can save lives, provide much-needed care, and ensure a brighter future for pets and wildlife across Los Angeles.





