Volunteers are risking everything to save pets and livestock from raging fires in California
In the rural areas near the canyons, many animals were left behind during frantic evacuations. Horses, goats, pigs, and even emus were at risk as the fires approached. Some animals needed gentle coaxing to escape the chaos, while others required large trailers to transport them to safety.
These volunteers quickly organized through social media and phone calls, working tirelessly through the night. Many had experience in previous rescues, showing their commitment to helping animals in distress.
Wildfires in California have become more intense, highlighting the urgent need for animal rescue efforts. The work is dangerous and often heartbreaking, but it showcases the incredible willingness of people to help during crises.
Brittany “Cole” Bush, who runs a ranch in Ojai Valley, shared how her phone was flooded with calls for help after she offered her trailers and expertise. She and her team navigated dark, winding roads to evacuate a farm, including a herd of sheep that were scared and unfamiliar with people.
With sirens blaring and police warning residents, the situation was tense. Bush knew they had to remain calm to avoid frightening the animals further. Slowly, they managed to lure the sheep into the trailer, while also rescuing some ducks along the way.
However, not every rescue had a happy ending. In some cases, owners had to leave their horses behind, opting to walk them out instead. One man even shared a video of him guiding his horses through the flames on a motorbike, just before his ranch was destroyed.
Austin Muhs, a local who has built a network for animal evacuations, recounted a tragic incident where 32 out of 40 horses perished because they were trapped in corrals. He emphasized that people often think they’re making the right choice in emergencies, but it can lead to devastating outcomes.
Despite the heartbreak, there were also stories of hope. Rescuers like Muhs and his team worked tirelessly, coordinating efforts and navigating dangerous conditions to save as many animals as possible. They were met with unwavering support from the community, with trailers ready to transport animals to safety.
As they worked, they encountered a stubborn pig named Fancypants, who fought against being loaded into the trailer. Heiser, one of the rescuers, empathized with the pig’s fear, recalling how he too would react if faced with such a situation.
Thanks to the efforts of these volunteers, many animals, including Fancypants, are now safe. However, the work isn’t over. Animals that suffered burns or smoke inhalation will need ongoing care, and some will need to be reunited with their owners.
The rescuers have faced significant costs, both in terms of safety and resources. As they prepare for potential new evacuations, they’re also focused on the future, coordinating efforts to return animals to their homes or find new places for them.
Bush is already planning for future fires, compiling a directory of resources and raising funds to support those who have taken in animals. Amidst the chaos, she’s also taking time to appreciate the good that has come from this disaster.
She shared a touching moment when she returned home after a long night of rescues. A ram, known for being standoffish, nuzzled close to her, as if to express gratitude for saving his family.
In the midst of the turmoil, there are moments of peace and softness, reminding everyone involved of the importance of their work in protecting these animals from harm.
