In the aftermath of the Eaton and Palisades fires, compassion and hope have emerged amidst the ashes, not only for residents but also for the furry and feathered members of our community. Pasadena Humane has been at the forefront of these vital efforts, demonstrating extraordinary dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating animals impacted by the devastating wildfires. World Animal News recently visited the shelter to highlight the organization’s incredible work and the inspiring stories of the animals they have saved.
Upon our arrival, we were welcomed by Kevin McManus, the PR and Communications Director of Pasadena Humane, who guided us through their operations during this critical time. From the moment we stepped into the facility, it was evident that a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and more exotic species, were receiving critical care and rehabilitation. This demonstrated the organization’s dedication to saving as many animals as possible during the fires.
“We took in a total of 1,500 animals as a result of the fire, many of whom were here for emergency boarding purposes. People’s homes were in harm’s way, and they had to evacuate, sometimes at a moment’s notice. They needed a safe place to bring their animals, so they brought them here. That is our role in the community and has been for 120-odd years, and it will continue for the next 120 as well. It was definitely an all-hands-on-deck, intense effort, but thankfully, we’re now on the tail end of things. We still have a lot of animals that we’re caring for temporarily until people can get back into their homes and on their feet.
“We were really lucky that we had a lot of support from other shelters and non-profits to help us with the animals who were already in our care. Within a few days of the fires starting, all the animals who were here for adoption had been transferred out to other shelters, which allowed us to focus all of our resources on those who were being evacuated during the fire, as well as the stray and injured animals we were able to pick up in the field.
“Pasadena Humane is one of only two shelters in Southern California that are licensed to rehabilitate wildlife; it’s a program that we run year-round. As a result of the wildfire, we took in close to 100 injured and orphaned wildlife of various species. We were able to rehabilitate and release a lot of them and work with local rehabbers to do so as well,” said Kevin McManus.
“As McManus continued to introduce us to several of the animals saved during the wildfires, one could not help but be moved by the stories of survival and resilience. Every animal had been through a tough journey, but was now on the road to recovery, thanks to the incredible team at Pasadena Humane. Their stories were both heartbreaking and inspiring, and you couldn’t help but feel moved by their spirit and determination.
“It’s incredible that the organization has offered its facility to pet owners affected by the wildfires. At no charge, Pasadena Humane is providing shelter for the pets of displaced families, ensuring the animals have a safe haven while their owners focus on rebuilding their lives. This gives pet owners peace of mind, knowing their beloved animals are being well cared for,” stated Katie Cleary from World Animal News.
“It truly takes a village to run Pasadena Humane with 1,800 active volunteers. You’re doing incredible work on behalf of all those who don’t have a voice,” Cleary told McManus during their interview.
Pasadena Humane is more than just a shelter; it is a beacon of hope during dire times, a reminder of the incredible bond between humans and animals, and the lengths we go to in order to ensure their safety and happiness. The extraordinary work done by McManus and his team will undoubtedly linger in the hearts and minds of everyone they’ve helped, serving as a powerful example of community and compassion in action during one of life’s most challenging times.
Show your support by donating to Pasadena Humane. They need your help to continue rescuing and providing essential care for animals in need. Donate HERE!
