A massive wildfire known as the Creek Fire sparked in Fresno County over Labor Day weekend. On Tuesday, September 8th, the Humane Society of Ventura County took in 14 animals from the Fresno area as evacuees from the blaze.

The Creek Fire started Friday, September 4th, from unknown causes. As of Tuesday, Sept. 15th, the fire had consumed 220,025 acres and was 16% contained according to Cal Fire. Auberry residents Julie and Mike evacuated after the conditions at their property became untenable. They fled to Ojai to stay with Julie’s sister Carla who called the HSVC to see if we could accommodate their pets. They arrived at the shelter with their nine dogs and five cats seeking safety. Our staff was prepared for the intake of animals and was able to accommodate all 14 evacuees comfortably. The HSVC wishes Mike, Julie, and their family the best and wants to assure them that their pets are safe during their time of uncertainty regarding the fate of their property.

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.