When Disaster Strikes, Animals Can’t Wait—Why Did Los Angeles?

When disaster strikes, every second counts. Yet, Los Angeles’ response to rescuing animals was dangerously slow following the Pacific Palisades fires. Los Angeles Animal Services (LAAS) took over a week to release a hotline for residents desperate to find their animal companions or even state their intention to rescue animals lost in the chaos. In a shocking video, PETA exposes how this unacceptable delay left animals stranded and injured, and left residents and volunteer rescuers scrambling to pick up the pieces.

Delayed Actions and Lack of Support

Simone Reyes, Vice President of Social Compassion in Legislation (SCIL), and a team of FEMA-certified rescuers were prepared to enter the Palisades burn zone. Despite their expertise and willingness to help, city officials delayed their entry—for days—leaving animals trapped in dangerous conditions.

Unwilling to Let Animals Suffer, Independent Rescuers Stepped In 

Actress Jorja Fox, an outspoken animal advocate, became involved after a friend contacted her in despair over a missing cat. Shira Scott Astrof, President of The Animal Rescue Mission, and Valerie Ianniello, President and co-founder of Women United for Animal Welfare (WUFAW), were among many volunteers who stepped in where the city failed, spending weeks rescuing stranded cats in fire-ravaged areas.

These dedicated volunteers gave hope to frantic guardians like Trish Alison, who lost both her home and studio in the fire. Trish was so determined to find her beloved cat Penelope that she slept outside waiting for her safe return. While LAAS dragged its feet, volunteers arranged feeding stations, monitored cameras, and set humane traps, ultimately reuniting Penelope with her ecstatic guardian after 23 long days.

Animals Deserve Emergency Preparedness and Protection

Animals are not afterthoughts; they are family members and feeling beings who deserve the same care as humans, and they depend on us to keep them safe. PETA is calling on Mayor Karen Bass and the City of Los Angeles to reform LAAS and do better by:

• Developing a disaster response plan for animals that includes swift deployment of rescue teams, accessible hotlines, and pre-designated evacuation sites.
• Establishing clear communication protocols between city officials, animal services, and independent rescue groups.
• Authorizing rescuers to assist during emergencies rather than delaying help waiting for a response from city officials.

What You Can Do Right Now

Los Angeles’ lackluster response is unacceptable. Help officials understand the message loud and clear.

• Watch and share PETA’s video.
• Contact Mayor Karen Bass and LAAS, demanding a concrete disaster plan for animals.

Prepare Before Disaster Strikes

Disasters often strike with little or no warning. We can all be better prepared at home by packing an emergency kit for our animal companions containing enough food, bottled water, and medication for at least one week, medical records, bowls, and a comfort item such as a favorite toy. Remember litter and a litter box for cats. Make sure all animals are microchipped and wearing ID tags with current contact information in case of accidental separation.