Emergency support for people and animals impacted by Los Angeles wildfires

At IFAW, we recognize the immense strain placed on local organizations 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. 

If you or someone you know has been impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles County, please find important resources here >>

Located farther from active fire zones, Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center doors are open to take in wildlife victims in an effort to alleviate capacity for rescue groups in affected areas, thus ensuring the animals can be cared for safely. The public has also begun bringing injured wildlife directly to WWCC, with the number of incoming patients expected to increase dramatically as burned areas reopen to rescue teams. 

The Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center specializes in rehabilitating injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife, and the current wildfire crisis has placed enormous pressure on their staff and resources. Burn injuries require specialized treatment, including wound care, hydration, and pain management. There are also less obvious impacts, such as smoke inhalation and chemical irritations from the soot. The center’s team is working tirelessly to ensure each animal receives the attention and care they need to recover and, when possible, return to the wild. 

Watch and read a message of support from IFAW’s President and CEO to all impacted by the Southern California wildfires >>

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 organizations. 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 organizations and municipalities, ensuring that animals and the people who care for them are not forgotten during this crisis and in the long recovery ahead.