Rescuing animals during wildfires – United States
As many as 90% of wildland fires in the US are caused by humansEmergency support for people and animals impacted by Los Angeles wildfires
Emergency support for people and animals impacted by Los Angeles wildfires
17 January 2025
Injured wildlife need rescue in Los Angeles wildfires
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County continue to rage, consuming over 37,000 acres and forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate. While people flee for safety, the fires are also taking an immeasurable toll on wildlife. Many animals are left injured, displaced, and in urgent need of care as their habitats are consumed by flames.
In this critical time, IFAW is providing an emergency grant to Pasadena Humane, which continues to be a vital lifeline for affected wildlife. Pasadena Humane is accepting injured wildlife, providing triage, and arranging for long-term care with partner organisations when necessary.
IFAW is supporting Pasadena Humane’s wildlife rehabilitation efforts for patients like this baby racoon in response to the Los Angeles wildfires. © Pasadena Humane
At IFAW, we recognise the immense strain placed on local organisations like Pasadena Humane during disasters of this magnitude. Our emergency grant will help cover extra staff time and medical treatments for injured wildlife.
Pasadena Humane’s ability to provide immediate care for injured animals is essential to ensuring the survival and recovery of countless wild animals.
The scale of destruction caused by these wildfires is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by both humans and animals during natural disasters. Together with Pasadena Humane and other partners, IFAW is committed to ensuring that wildlife has a chance to recover and return to their natural habitats once the fires are extinguished.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, U.S. this week have taken a toll on both people and animals alike. Since igniting early Tuesday morning, the fires have tragically claimed five human lives, forced tens of thousands to evacuate their homes, and left a path of destruction in their wake. Those affected include countless pets and wildlife that also call Los Angeles home.
A Pacific Palisades resident flees with her dog from the oncoming Palisades Fire, 7 January 2025. Photo: Sipa USA via AP.
While many residents were able to escape with their pets, some animals have been left behind, creating a dire situation for local shelters and rescue organisations. These groups, already burdened by overpopulation, are now working tirelessly to care for the influx of animals in need.
Many of this week’s scenes follow familiar celebrity faces and places we know and love, but the chaos caused by the fires highlights the challenges faced by underserved communities as well, where resources for both people and animals are often scarce.
At IFAW, we are prepared to support those most in need. Ongoing calls with the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition (NARSC) ensure that we’re able to continuously assess emerging needs. We’ve also reached out to the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC) to offer support to their members working in affected areas.
With decades of experience, IFAW's global responders are expertly equipped to help animals and people in even the direst of emergencies. We stand ready to collaborate with local organisations and municipalities, ensuring that animals and the people who care for them are not forgotten during this crisis and in the long recovery ahead.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
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