Update January 22, 2025
Teamwork in Action: Supporting Animals and People During the L.A. Fires
Last week, Marin Humane welcomed more furry friends from Southern California to help support L.A. shelters overwhelmed by the devastating wildfires. These dogs were already awaiting adoption when the fires broke out, and bringing them to the Bay Area created critical space for strays and pets displaced from the fire zones. Some of these pups are receiving veterinary care at our shelter, and one lucky dog has already found a forever home! This effort was made possible with the incredible support of The San Francisco SPCA, Amelia Air Animal Rescue, San Diego Humane Society, and Greater Good Charities.
Meanwhile, Marin Humane staff members Candace Alexander, Michelle Teruel, and Michael Skyvara worked on-site at Pasadena Humane to provide much-needed relief. Michelle and Michael assisted with cleaning, dog walking, and animal care, while Candace supported volunteer coordination, data management, and HR services. They were inspired by the incredible collaboration of staff, volunteers, and emergency responders, united by their dedication to helping animals and their families during this crisis.
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have left local animal shelters overwhelmed, and Marin Humane is answering the call for help. Here’s how we’re making a difference and how you can join us:
- Creating Space for Evacuees’ Pets: We’ve already welcomed 46 animals from L.A. shelters — two dogs and 44 small animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, and hamsters. We’re fortunate to have the right kind of housing and the expertise to care for these special critters! These cuties were available for adoption before the fires, and by bringing them here, we’re freeing up critical space for pets displaced by evacuations.
- Sending Help On-Site: A dedicated team headed to Pasadena Humane this morning to provide relief for exhausted shelter staff and assist with animal care. We’ll also be sending specialized Animal Services Officers trained in pet rescue and reunification.
How You Can Help!
- Foster: Provide a calm, loving home for animals in need — especially big dogs, shy cats, and rabbits. Sign up at marinhumane.org/foster.
- Adopt: Now is the perfect time to open your heart to a new furry friend. Each adoption here creates space for more animals. View adoptable pets at marinhumane.org/adopt.
- Donate: Support established L.A. shelters directly — but beware of scams by only giving directly through shelters’ websites. You can also support our Emergency Response Fund, which helps build our capacity to address disasters when they arise.
We’re on daily calls with a statewide coalition of animal shelters, getting the latest updates and seeing where we can help in this still unfolding disaster.
L.A. faces a very long road to recovery, and we’ll be there to help as much as we can. Thank you for your support — it ensures we can respond quickly to help animals and the people who love them.
PS: Check out some recent media coverage about our disaster response efforts:
