Rescuing animals during wildfires – United States
As many as 90% of wildland fires in the US are caused by humansIFAW team deploys to California to support animal rescue amidst ‘monster’ Park Fire
IFAW team deploys to California to support animal rescue amidst ‘monster’ Park Fire
As the fifth-largest wildfire in the state’s history rages through northern California, IFAW is deploying to the area to support animal rescue efforts.
In addition to the dozens of other fires burning across the western US and Canada, forcing thousands to evacuate, the Park Fire, which began on Wednesday, 24 July, has spread through more than 385,000 acres. It currently impacts Tehama, Shasta, Plumas, and Butte counties.
Local organisation Buster’s Paw Prints has been delegated by the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office to manage animal sheltering and related services during Park Fire response operations. A significant portion of Tehama County remains under evacuation orders or warnings.
As a trusted and committed partner in responding to wildfires in the region, the Buster’s team contacted IFAW on Monday, 30 July, for support. They have opened a temporary shelter inside a large barn located out of harm’s way to support small domestic animals. This is their first temporary shelter, and as county services are overwhelmed, the organisation is working 24/7 alongside volunteers. Tehama County has also opened two temporary, self-serve shelters for large animals.
On 31 July, IFAW’s team began deploying to Tehama County to assist with the duties and operations of the temporary shelters, discuss mutual aid between counties, and support pet reunification and placement for longer-term needs.
IFAW has a long history working with NVADG and county authorities in the nearby Butte County, responding to past wildfires. Fortunately, Park Fire evacuation orders for most of Butte County have now been lifted.
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