As wildfires rage across Southern California, a heart-wrenching video showing a baby deer lost and confused in smoke-filled streets has captured the widespread devastation. The fire has already burned through 30,000 acres of land, destroying homes, forests, and wildlife habitats. It has left thousands of residents displaced and countless animals in peril.
Heartbreaking @NBCLA footage shows a deer running through Altadena as a wildfire burns over 10,000 acres. pic.twitter.com/kBMeoa38SP
— Jacob Wheeler (@JWheelertv) January 8, 2025
Devastating Impact on Wildlife and Pets
The video, initially shared by NBC LA, shows a baby deer running through the streets of Altadena, seemingly disoriented and terrified by the chaos. The young animal pauses in confusion. Its small silhouette against the thick smoke uncertain of where safety lies. The clip has gone viral, drawing emotional responses from viewers across the globe. The video highlighting the impact the fire has had on both human and animal life.
The wildfire, one of the most destructive in Los Angeles history, has already destroyed over 1,000 structures. Families, pets, and wildlife are struggling to survive in its aftermath. As flames continue to devastate Southern California, the Pasadena Humane Animal Shelter has stepped in as a sanctuary for hundreds of displaced animals.
Animal Shelters Overwhelmed by the Crisis
The Pasadena Humane Animal Shelter reported that it has taken in over 300 animals, many suffering from burns and other injuries caused by the fires. The shelter has been providing critical care, including pain medication, wound treatment, fluids, and oxygen to animals in need. To help with the overwhelming influx of animals, the shelter has formed partnerships with other shelters across California to relocate animals and create space for new arrivals.
In a statement, the shelter urged residents to evacuate promptly and ensure their pets are not left behind. They also offered boarding services and pet food to help evacuees who couldn’t bring their animals with them.
Rescue Efforts Amidst the Chaos
While thousands of people scramble to evacuate, many have also risked their lives to save animals caught in the flames. In Altadena, several residents have braved the blaze to rescue horses, guiding them to safety through the dangerous fires. The Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank has become a refuge for animals, housing horses, pigs, and other evacuated animals.
Los Angeles Animal Services’ six shelters are at full capacity, housing 1,500 animals, while LA County Animal Care’s seven centers are also nearing full capacity. Authorities have urged the public to foster animals if they can to provide relief for the overwhelmed shelters.
Ongoing Rescue Operations
The Pasadena Humane Animal Shelter continues to provide emergency medical care for wildlife affected by the fires, including animals orphaned by the devastating Eaton Fire, which has burned 13,500 acres in the Altadena/Pasadena area. Many animals suffering from smoke inhalation are being treated with oxygen and fluids.
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Among the animals being cared for is Roxy, a white dog found in a collapsed home, covered in ash and suffering from severe burns. She is currently being treated in the shelter’s ICU for burns on her body, face, and eyes. Meanwhile, pets like Dana Schlossberg’s kitten, Hoku, remain unaccounted for as families search for their beloved animals among the devastation.
