In the wake of Los Angeles County’s devastating wildfires, more than 80 shelter pets were evacuated and flown to safety. On January 11, 58 cats and 26 dogs were transported from the overcrowded shelters that had been heavily impacted by the raging fires since January 7. 

This emergency rescue mission which was orchestrated by Best Friends Animal Society and Wings of Rescue, ensured these animals would be cared for and find new homes far from the dangers of the wildfire.

Lifesaving action for stranded Pets

The animals were evacuated from shelters, including the Los Angeles County Animal Shelter in Lancaster, which was struggling under the strain of fire-related chaos. Best Friends Animal Society emphasized that wildfires such as this often lead to pets being separated from their owners, with responders working tirelessly to secure them.

 “It’s crucial to act quickly in these situations,” said Best Friends. “We make sure pets are found and moved to safety, where they receive the care they need.”

Once the animals were safely packed into crates, Wings of Rescue flew them to Kanab and Utah, where Best Friends’ sanctuary awaited them with veterinarians and staff ready to provide the essential care required. Within 24 hours, another flight helped clear space in Los Angeles shelters, enabling them to take in more animals that were impacted by the fires. Both flights were supported by the Cencora Impact Fund.

Similar efforts in other regions

In another effort to aid animals affected by the fires, socialite and philanthropist Paris Hilton volunteered at the Pasadena Humane Society to help animals displaced by the Los Angeles wildfires. Hilton, who had watched her own Malibu home burn down in the fires, worked with the shelter to assist animals and boost the search for missing pets. 

A cat from the Altadena area was featured in Hilton’s social media post, urging people to help reunite the lost animal with its owner. Hilton’s nonprofit, 11:11 Media Impact, has also contributed funds in support of the shelter’s ongoing work.

These rescue efforts echo those from 2019 when animal rescue organizations in Northern California evacuated over 100 pets from fire zones. In both instances, teams swiftly mobilized to ensure pets were relocated to safer areas, highlighting the critical role of coordinated rescue missions in disaster scenarios.