Help Animals Displaced by Wildfires: Join the San Diego Humane Society’s ‘Empty the Shelters’ Event

Recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area have left many pets without homes, prompting the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) to take immediate action to provide sanctuary for these displaced animals. From January 15 to January 26, the Bissell Pet Foundation is sponsoring an initiative titled “Empty the Shelters,” featuring reduced adoption fees that make it more accessible than ever to welcome a new furry friend into your home.

What is the ‘Empty the Shelters’ Promotion?

• The goal of the event is to decrease adoption fees to just $25 for adult dogs and cats. This substantial reduction comes at a critical time when many families are seeking to adopt pets and give them a second chance.
• By encouraging potential adopters, SDHS aims to clear much-needed space in their shelters, enabling them to accept even more animals in distress.

Displaced Pets and Rescue Efforts

The impact of the Eaton and Palisades fires has been devastating, with many pets left vulnerable and homeless. To address this crisis, SDHS has partnered with the Pasadena Humane Society, which has already taken in over 400 animals affected by the wildfires. The collaboration aims to ensure a safe haven for these pets while alleviating overcrowding in the affected areas.

“We took in 39 dogs who were already available for adoption at Pasadena Humane Society,” said Jordan Frey, SDHS Marketing Manager. “Our goal was to clear out their shelter so they could make room for more animals who were coming in needing assistance.”

The Significance of Fostering

To support their mission, SDHS emphasizes the urgent need for foster families—especially for larger dogs and those who require to be the only pet in the home. Every foster caring for a dog helps create critical space in the shelter system.

As Nina Thompson, SDHS spokesperson, noted, “Not every foster volunteer who signs up will get a dog from Pasadena Humane, but every foster will make an incredible impact by opening shelter space so San Diego Humane Society can continue to take in animals from Los Angeles.”

Beyond Dogs and Cats

SDHS’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond the conventional pets we often think of. Alongside caring for dogs and cats, they’ve also rescued nine birds, including chickens and pea hens, in Altadena. Their efforts include welfare checks on animals left behind during evacuations, such as koi fish that need relocation to safer environments.

How You Can Help

• Adopt: Visit your local SDHS campus to meet dogs and cats in need of loving homes. Adoption hours are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Foster: If you have the means, consider applying to foster a pet. You can find more information and apply online at sdhumane.org/foster.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the available pets for adoption by visiting sdhumane.org/adopt and sharing your findings with friends and family who may consider adopting.

Your involvement can change the life of an animal in need! Every share, every conversation about adoption, and every foster opportunity can help create a brighter future for these innocent creatures facing uncertainty. Let’s come together and ensure that every pet finds the love and care they deserve. Will you consider adopting or fostering a pet this month? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your comments below, and don’t forget to clap for this post to spread awareness.

Tags: San Diego Humane Society, Pet Adoption, Empty the Shelters, Animal Rescue, Foster Pets, Wildfire Relief