After being displaced for over a week due to the Creek Fire, we are happy to report that Julie and Mike’s family, along with their nine dogs and five cats, were able to finally return home!

Auberry residents Mike and Julie fled the Fresno County area after their home was threatened by the Creek Fire. Julie’s sister, Carla, lives in Ojai and contacted the Humane Society of Ventura County to see if we could accommodate their 14 pets. The family arrived at the shelter late September 8^th with their pack of animals in tow. Our staff was well prepared for their arrival and was able to house each of Mike and Julie’s 14 animals quickly and comfortably.

The HSVC sheltered Mike and Julie’s animals for a total of nine days. On September 17^th, the family was able to return home with their animals. “We cannot thank the HSVC enough for everything they have done for us. We are just so grateful for everything,” said Julie.

Upon leaving, Julie asked Shelter Director Jolene Hoffman what she could do to repay the shelter for all their help. Jolene replied that wasn’t necessary. “You rescued each of these dogs, and we are more than willing to help in any way we can. This is also our way of giving back to our community after receiving so much support over the last three years during disaster season. We will always help those in need,” Jolene said.

For years, the HSVC has functioned as an evacuation center for animals in need of refuge as a result of California’s many wildfires. As always, we offer our disaster relief and sheltering services at absolutely no charge to anyone who needs our help. Our hearts go out to all those affected by these disasters, as does our respect and admiration for those fighting to protect the people and animals in danger's way.

Thank you to all who have supported us throughout the years during these difficult times. As a private nonprofit animal welfare organization, we rely entirely on the generosity of our community to offer disaster relief services to those in need. If you would like to support our ongoing efforts, please consider making a donation or purchasing an item from our Wish List. If you are in need of sheltering and/or disaster relief services, please call the shelter at 805-646-6505.