An Animal Welfare Guide to Supporting Those Affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires – by Michelson Found Animals
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have had a devastating impact on our community, leaving many families displaced and struggling to cope with the aftermath. At Michelson Found Animals, we stand in solidarity with those affected and are committed to providing support and resources to both people and pets during this difficult time.
For Those Affected by the Fires:
If you or someone you know has been impacted by the wildfires, please know that you are not alone. We understand that this is a challenging time, and we are here to help. Here are some resources that may be of assistance:
- Emergency Shelters, Evacuation Centers, and Housing Resources for Pet Owners: The Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) has provided a full list of resources, including evacuation shelters for people and animals, temporary housing guides, FEMA assistance, transportation, and city services. Click here for their guide.
- Michelson Found Animals Better Neighbor Project: Our Better Neighbor Project team (BNP) is distributing large amounts of pet food and supplies across Los Angeles in affected areas, thanks to a generous donation from Greater Good Charities. If you are an organization in need of pet food or supplies please fill out our donations request form here, You can also contact us at betterneighbor@foundanimals.org.
Help For Animals:
Palisades Fire Los Angeles Animal Services Hotine at (213) 270 – 8155
- Visit laanimalservices.com/palisades-fire for more information and resources.
Eaton Fire Rescue Hotline at (626) 577 – 3752
- Found animals (including pets, livestock, exotics, and wildlife)
- Lost animals
- Animals left behind in an evacuated home or property
The ASPCA has created a resource guide for animals affected by the wildfires. It includes links to:
- Sheltering & Supplies
- Emergency Vet Care
- Reunification Efforts
- Pet-Friendly Hotels
For Those Looking to Help:
If you are looking for ways to support those affected by the wildfires, there are many ways you can help:
- Donate to reputable organizations: Consider donating to organizations that are providing relief efforts to those affected by the wildfires. Some organizations actively involved in wildfire relief efforts include the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Community Animal Medicine Project (CAMP), which provides free veterinary care to animals affected by wildfires.
- Volunteer your time: Many organizations are seeking volunteers to assist with relief efforts. Visit our volunteer page for info on how to apply to help our team in Los Angeles provide direct support to pet parents in need. You can also contact local shelters, food banks, and other organizations to see how you can help. Check out this full list via the LA Times.
- Foster or adopt: Local animal shelters and rescues are calling on the community to help provide temporary and permanent homes for pets displaced by the wildfires. LA Animal Services and Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control are offering fee-waived adoptions and urging residents to foster pets to ease overcrowding in shelters.
Michelson Found Animals Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative
Our Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative (PIHI) is dedicated to creating a world where pets and people can thrive together. We understand that housing can be a major concern for those who have been displaced by the wildfires. Visit the petsandhousing.org resource center for their full list of comprehensive resources, including guides for hotels and temporary housing providers, pet-owning renters, and rental property owners.
Disaster Preparedness Relief Tips & Guides from Michelson Found Animals:
- Disaster Preparedness for Your Pets
- How to Prepare For a Wildfire With Your Pets
- The Natural Disaster Guide for Rescues and Shelters
- The Post-Natural Disaster Guide for Your Pets
- How You Can Help Animals Affected by Wildfires
At Michelson Found Animals, we believe that every animal deserves a loving home. We are committed to supporting our community during this difficult time and ensuring that pets and their families have the resources they need to recover from this disaster. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who are working tirelessly to help those affected by the wildfires. Together, we can rebuild and create a stronger, more resilient community for both people and pets.
Follow us on social media at @foundanimals on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on information, resources, and where our on-the-ground team will be distributing supplies in the Los Angeles area.