As Californians, we know that wildfires are an ever-present threat, but the devastation unfolding in Southern California’s Palisades region is a stark reminder of how quickly these emergencies can upend lives. Our hearts go out to those affected by this disaster, including the countless families, animals, and first responders working tirelessly to protect their homes and communities. At Brindleden, we believe in the power of community—and today, that means standing in solidarity with our neighbors to the south.

While details are still emerging, reports indicate that families are scrambling to evacuate, and pets are amongst the most vulnerable during this chaotic time. This blog post is dedicated to offering support, practical advice, and resources to help ensure pets stay safe and reunited with their families during wildfires and other natural disasters.

How to Keep Pets Safe in Wildfire Emergencies

Preparing for emergencies can make all the difference when disaster strikes. Here are some tips to help ensure your pets stay safe:

1. Have an Emergency Kit Ready

• Essentials to Include:

  • Food and water for at least three days.

  • Collapsible bowls.

  • A leash, harness, and a carrier for each pet.

  • Waste bags and litter supplies for cats.

  • Any necessary medications and medical records.

  • Comfort items like a blanket or favorite toy.

2. Keep Identification Updated

• Ensure your pet’s collar includes a tag with your contact information.

• Microchip your pets and confirm that your information is current in the microchip registry.

3. Evacuate Early

• Do not wait for mandatory evacuation orders; leaving early reduces stress and ensures you have time to safely transport your pets.

4. Plan Your Evacuation Route

• Research pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or boarding facilities ahead of time. Many evacuation centers do not allow animals, so having a plan ensures your pets have a safe place to stay.

5. Keep Pets Calm During Evacuations

• Use carriers or harnesses to keep your pets secure.

• Speak in soothing tones and remain calm; pets often take emotional cues from their owners.

Palisades Wildfire: Resources for Pet Owners

If you or someone you know is affected by the Palisades wildfire, here are verified resources to assist with pet safety and care:

1. Finding Lost Pets

• Los Angeles County Animal Services is actively assisting in pet recovery efforts. Visit their website or call their hotline at (888) 452-7381.

• Petco Love Lost (petcolovelost.org) allows users to upload photos of missing pets and search a database of found animals.

2. Providing Shelter for Pets

• Local organizations like The Humane Society of Ventura County and Pasadena Humane are offering emergency boarding for displaced pets. Check their websites for availability.

• Apps like PawBoost or Nextdoor can also help connect pet owners with temporary foster families.

3. Making Donations

• Support relief efforts through verified organizations:

  • Greater Good Charities: Focused on helping families and pets affected by wildfires.

  • American Red Cross: Assisting with disaster relief efforts.

  • Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation: Provides direct support to animal shelters and rescue operations during emergencies.

How You Can Help

Even if you’re not directly affected, there are ways to support pets and families impacted by the Palisades wildfire:

• Donate Supplies: Food, bedding, and crates are always in demand at shelters.

• Volunteer: Reach out to local animal shelters or disaster relief organizations to see how you can help.

• Spread the Word: Share social media posts about missing pets or shelters in need of support to increase their visibility.

Spotlight on Local Heroes

Amid the devastation, stories of resilience and compassion are emerging. From first responders rescuing animals to volunteers reuniting pets with their families, these acts of kindness remind us of the strength of our communities. If you have a story to share about how pets are being helped during this wildfire, we would love to have you share in the comments (or share with us).