Rescues and animal hospitals in Los Angeles are overwhelmed with injured pets during the city’s intense wildfires. Animal welfare groups have rescued many animals with various injuries and burns near fire areas. Sufferers of severe fire effects, such as smoke inhalation and dehydration, have been transported to veterinary intensive care units. The species being taken in range from household pets to farm animals, including dogs, cats, goats, and pigs.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) has received more than 50 pets for temporary care from displaced owners. Staff at facilities like spcaLA offer these animals a veterinary examination, treats, and interactive toys to keep animal spirits high. Some institutions, such as Pasadena Humane, are also caring for wildlife affected by the fires, treating them in hopes of releasing them back to the wild when the fires are extinguished.
