The devastating wildfires that recently swept through Los Angeles County left a trail of destruction, displacing residents and impacting countless animals. Amidst the chaos, a heartwarming story of rescue and resilience emerged as over 80 pets were airlifted to safety, thanks to the collaborative efforts of animal welfare organizations. These animals, now safe and sound, are looking for their forever homes.
Wings of Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society Team Up for Emergency Evacuation
On Saturday, January 11th, Best Friends Animal Society, a leading no-kill animal sanctuary in the U.S., orchestrated an emergency evacuation of 84 pets from overcrowded Los Angeles County animal shelters. The shelters, heavily impacted by the fires that began on January 7th, were struggling to accommodate the influx of displaced animals. 58 cats and 26 dogs were transported to Hollywood Burbank Airport, their journey to safety just beginning.
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Best Friends recognized the urgent need to alleviate the strain on local shelters and ensure the well-being of these vulnerable animals. In the chaos of evacuations, pets often become separated from their families or escape in panic. First responders and shelter workers tirelessly search for these lost animals, providing temporary care until they can be reunited with their owners.
From California to Utah: A Journey to Safety and Care
Partnering with Wings of Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to transporting animals from disaster areas, Best Friends secured a twin-engine turboprop plane for the mission. Carefully loaded into carriers and crates, the 84 animals embarked on a life-changing flight from California to Kanab, Utah, the home of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
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Upon arrival in Kanab, a dedicated team of Best Friends staff and volunteers sprang into action, swiftly unloading the precious cargo. The animals received immediate veterinary attention, ensuring their health and providing any necessary medical care before settling into the sanctuary. This rapid response was crucial in mitigating the stress of the journey and ensuring the animals’ well-being.
A Second Flight and Continued Support for Animals Affected by Wildfires
The rescue efforts didn’t stop there. Just a day later, on January 12th, Wings of Rescue conducted a second flight, transporting more animals from Los Angeles County to Seattle. This second mission further relieved the burden on local shelters, including Pasadena Humane and L.A. Animal Services, creating space for animals displaced by the ongoing fires. The Cencora Impact Fund generously provided partial funding for both flights, demonstrating the power of community support in times of crisis.
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Best Friends Extends Support to Pet Owners in Need
Recognizing the widespread impact of the wildfires, Best Friends Animal Society also established two pet food pantries in Los Angeles. Located at the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in West L.A. and the Best Friends Clinic in Granada Hills, these pantries provide essential resources to pet owners struggling to feed their companions amidst the devastation. This initiative ensures that pets remain nourished and cared for, even in the face of adversity.
The Devastating Impact of the Palisades and Eaton Fires
The Palisades fire, igniting in Pacific Palisades on January 7th, scorched over 23,700 acres, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. Concurrently, the Eaton fire, also originating on January 7th, ravaged over 14,000 acres in another part of Los Angeles County. These fires, along with other blazes that erupted in Southern California, underscore the critical need for emergency preparedness and community support. The Los Angeles County Fire Department continues its tireless efforts to contain these fires and protect lives and property. These heroic efforts, coupled with the compassionate work of animal rescue organizations, exemplify the resilience and unity of the community in the face of disaster. The rescued animals, now safe and receiving exceptional care, await their forever families. You can make a difference in their lives by considering adoption. Contact Best Friends Animal Society to learn more about these adoptable pets and how you can provide a loving home.
