The Pasadena Humane Society has set up an animal rescue hotline to help separate pets and owners during the crisis Eaton Fire.
“Keep looking, keep checking, because you never know when your dog or cat will come in, especially if they’ve been running for a few days,” spokesman Kevin McManus said.
On Tuesday, a week after the Eaton Fire began, the Pasadena Humane Society has recovered 123 strays: 63 dogs, 35 cats and 25 other animals, most of them birds but also 1 pig, turtle and goldfish.
Pasadena Humane Society
Many of the animals required some form of medical care, including treatment for burns, dehydration and smoke inhalation.
“Our animal ICU — which is staffed by our veterinarians — basically triages everyone (and) gets them the care they need to get them stable,” McManus said.
The Humane Society will hold the animals for 21 days, significantly longer than the usual five. Years of volunteers have seen many families become whole again as they are reunited with their pets here.
“That was so worth it,” said volunteer Mary Ann Ortolano. “To see the joy after so much pain and fear, it’s just indescribable.”
In addition to the stray animals they found, the Pasadena Humane Society has brought in more than 600 pets since the fires began. They have committed to caring for these animals indefinitely.
“We are committed to holding onto these pets for as long as it takes for their families to get back on their feet,” McManus said.
This includes Elvia Soto’s two cats, Cali and recently renamed Ash, after she lost her home in Altadena.
“I kept one, but I couldn’t find the other cat,” she said. “My niece said she followed her and she couldn’t believe how she survived.”
Soto’s beloved pets are in good health and patiently waiting for Elvia to take them home.
The Humane Society has also set up a pet pantry to provide free food and supplies to affected pet owners. They are open daily from 10am to 5pm
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Pasadena Humane Society’s Eaton Fire Animal Rescue Hotline: (626) 577-3752. To report found animals, lost animals and abandoned animals in an evacuated home or building, you can call the hotline. Stray animals staying at the shelter can be found at 24petconnect.com/psdn.
Photos and descriptions of lost pets can be posted on Petco Love Lost at petcolove.org/lost.
Pasadena Humane is asking people with lost pets not to enter burned areas to protect themselves and the animals. Trained responders will conduct operations to address the efforts.