Animal Shelter Consumed by Palisades Fire, Ponies Saved Just in Time

On January 8th, 2025, Philozoia Animal Rescue, located in Santa Monica, found itself directly in the path of the Palisades fire. The California rescue, which primarily cares for dogs, had already evacuated 38 dogs and a pig earlier that day. However, two ponies remained stranded as flames encroached upon the property.

In Defense of Animals shared on its Facebook page that board member Sammy Zablen and a team of animal rescuers "braved rockslides, fire debris, and dangerous trails to evacuate two ponies from a fire-threatened property." What was anticipated to be a 20-minute drive became a difficult three-hour trek, as the roads were blocked by downed trees, rockslides, and debris from the fire, causing delays in their arrival.

 Once they reached the site, rescuers found that the ponies' corral had been damaged, and the animals were missing. A tense 30-minute search ensued. Thankfully, the rescuers eventually located the ponies and safely reunited them with their caretakers.

Photo courtesy of In Defense of Animals

The blaze ravaged Philozoia's rescue center, and two dogs remain unaccounted for, even though most of the animals were evacuated successfully. At this point, the organization’s main focus is on reconstructing the facility and locating homes for the displaced animals, which includes several older dogs.

Apart from Philozoia, other individuals and organizations have come forward to assist animals affected by the California wildfires. Los Angeles veterinarian Dr. Annie Harvilicz shared on CBS New Mornings that she has provided shelter for over 40 animals, including dogs, cats, and even a rabbit named Oreo, at her home and an empty animal hospital.

Actor William McNamara recently shared on Instagram his efforts to rescue animals. He is working with the Eastwood Ranch Foundation to help evacuate various animals, including pigs, goats, peacocks, and horses, from difficult situations.

The Los Angeles Equestrian Center is sheltering around 400 large animals, primarily horses. Lifesavers Wild Horse Rescue has also relocated wild horses to safer areas. Lifesavers Wild Horse Rescue has also relocated wild horses to safer areas.

How You Can Help:

Report Animals in Need: If you see domestic or wild animals in distress, contact board member Sammy Zablen of In Defense of Animals at 310-869-2383.

Foster Displaced Animals: Philozoia Animal Rescue urgently needs foster homes for its animals, including senior dogs.

Donate:

• To support Philozoia Animal Rescue's rebuilding efforts, visit their GoFundMe page.

• Contribute directly to In Defense of Animals to help fund food, supplies, and other rescue expenses.