How to Help Pets Displaced in the California Wildfires

The catastrophic wildfires in Southern California have displaced tens of thousands of people—and their pets. With evacuation orders affecting up to 200,000 residents, animals have been urgently surrendered to already overcrowded shelters across the Los Angeles area. Many were handed over as temporary safekeeping, with pet parents hoping to reunite once the danger passes. Others arrived injured—suffering from smoke inhalation, singed paws, burns, and dehydration—as reported by the Pasadena Humane Society. Still more were found lost amid the rubble, with rescuers working tirelessly to reconnect them with their families.

Volunteers gently wrapping a rescued dog in a blanket at a mobile triage station

This is an urgent, large-scale emergency requiring immediate human and financial support. Shelters and rescue groups need help now—not just to house and feed displaced pets, but to provide critical medical care, behavioral support, and compassionate temporary care. Whether you adopt, foster, donate funds, or contribute supplies, your involvement makes a tangible difference.

Help by Adopting a Pet

If you’ve been considering welcoming a new companion—or expanding your pet family—this is a meaningful time to act. Several local organizations are offering no-fee adoptions for animals who urgently need loving, permanent homes.

  • Boyle Heights Cats
  • The Cat Posse
  • DACC Los Angeles County Animal Control
  • LAAS Los Angeles Animal Services
  • Paws for Life K9 Rescue
  • The Rescue Train
  • Southern California Bulldog Rescue
A calm senior cat resting in a cozy adoption room with soft lighting

Help by Fostering an Animal

Fostering provides stability and healing for animals facing uncertainty. A safe, nurturing home—even for just a few weeks—can ease stress, support recovery, and prepare pets for successful adoption.

  • Boyle Heights Cats
  • Canine Rescue Club
  • The Cat Posse
  • DACC Los Angeles County Animal Control
  • LAAS Los Angeles Animal Services
  • Paws for Life K9 Rescue
  • The Rescue Train
  • Sandy and the Crew Animal Rescue
  • Shelter Hope Pet Shop
  • Southern California Bulldog Rescue

Help by Donating Money

Nonprofit rescues and shelters are rapidly depleting their resources—covering veterinary bills, food, shelter maintenance, and emergency medical treatments for fire-injured animals. Financial support helps them respond swiftly and effectively.

  • Ace of Hearts Dog Rescue
  • Animal Care Zone
  • Bayberry Feline Rescue & TNR Project
  • Boyle Heights Cats
  • Canine Rescue Club
  • The Cat’s Meow
  • The Cat Posse (via official website or FurPetVo.com fundraising page)
  • DACC Los Angeles County Animal Control
  • Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary
  • LAAS Los Angeles Animal Services
  • Pasadena Humane
  • Paws for Life K9 Rescue
  • The Rescue Train
  • Smooch Pooch Dog Rescue
  • Southern California Bulldog Rescue
Veterinarian examining a kitten with soot-streaked fur during on-site triage

Help by Donating Supplies

Many organizations maintain targeted wishlists or accept specific in-kind donations. These items go directly to caring for displaced pets—reducing strain on operating budgets and ensuring every animal receives essentials.

  • Ace of Hearts Dog Rescue: Dog beds (all sizes), leashes, martingale collars (all sizes), flea medication, Clavamox, and other common vet medications
  • Bayberry Feline Rescue & TNR Project: Canned and dry cat food
  • Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary: Cat food and supplies (via FurPetVo.com Amazon wishlist)
  • Keep Rescuing: Food and cleaning supplies
  • Saint Felix Cat Rescue & Animals with Disabilities: Cat bowls and beds
  • Smooch Pooch Dog Rescue: Dog food, treats, beds, leashes, collars
  • Viva la Vida Rescue: Cat food, litter, and other essentials (via FurPetVo.com Amazon wishlist)

All organizations listed have been vetted by FurPetVo’s editorial team for legitimacy and transparency. Always donate through official websites—never via unverified social media posts or personal accounts—to protect yourself and ensure your support reaches those who need it most.

Where Pet Parents Can Go with Their Pets

If you or someone you know has been affected by the wildfires and needs safe, pet-friendly shelter, the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services has designated several locations that welcome both people and small animals:

  • Westwood Recreation Center: 1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles
  • Pasadena Civic Auditorium: 300 E. Green St., Pasadena
  • El Camino Real Charter High School: 5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills
  • Ritchie Valens Recreation Center: 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima
  • Sepulveda Recreation Center: 8825 Kester Ave., Panorama City
Family with two dogs and a carrier holding a cat entering a brightly lit recreation center marked 'Pet-Friendly Shelter'

For real-time evacuation updates and additional pet-friendly shelter information, visit furpetvo.com/emergency-resources.