Last week was incredibly tough for the residents of Los Angeles due to the destructive wildfires that wiped out entire neighborhoods and historical buildings. The incompetence of the city officials who contributed to this disaster has only made the situation worse. Despite the overwhelming devastation, there are always individuals who step up to help – a sentiment echoed by Mr. Rogers, who famously advised looking for the helpers during times of trouble.
This week’s Feel-Good Friday is about the Helpers, particularly those who are helping the animals.
The Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank is one of those places opening their doors free of charge to house displaced horses.
One shining example of this is Veterinarian Annie Harvilicz, the owner of two animal hospitals located near the Los Angeles International Airport in Marina del Rey. Dr. Harvilicz took to Facebook to offer shelter for pets displaced by the fires. The response was incredible, with many not only requesting her assistance but also offering to lend a hand or volunteer their time to support her efforts.
So far, Dr. Harvilicz has accommodated 40 dogs, cats, and even a rabbit. However, with the wildfires still spreading and more people needing help, she is prepared to take in additional animals, as noted by editor Bob Hoge in his coverage of the story.
“To me, this is a no-brainer. I looked around and said, ‘I have a lot of space here. I can help.”
This video shows more of Harvilicz’s story, as well as stories of other Helpers who are housing, rescuing, and facilitating the safe transport of these abandoned and displaced creatures. Pasadena Humane Society has taken in over 300 animals, and the L.A. Animal Shelter has also become overloaded. If you would like to be a Helper by donating toward the emergency care and aid for these animals, follow the links on the X posts from these organizations.
If anyone wants to help the animals caught in the CA wildfires, please consider donating to LA animal shelters (and if you’re in LA, fostering!)
Pasadena Humane Animal Shelter is on the front lines of taking care of pets: https://t.co/TI6iGfCB0m
— Leeanna Albanese (@leeannaalbanese) January 9, 2025
In the wake of the LA wildfires, pets are suffering and they need our urgent support. ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Your donation to our friends at @bestfriends can provide critical relief for impacted animals. Link in our bio to help.#LAWildfiresPets #LAWildfires #CaliforniaWildfires pic.twitter.com/IxmcdxlKtl
— PetSafe (@PetSafe) January 10, 2025
