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San Bernardino County Animal Care supports those affected by fires
San Bernardino Sep 17, 2024
Two of the many evacuated critters being cared for by County Animal Care. | Photo courtesy of San Bernardino County
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As the Bridge and Line Fires continue to burn, San Bernardino County Animal Care has been involved in ensuring the safety and protection of animals displaced by the fires.
Field personnel have been on the front lines, helping residents transport both small and large animals to safety.
When the need for animal sheltering arose due to the Line Fire, Animal Care swiftly set up shelters at multiple locations. The county animal shelter in Devore was immediately available to support both domestic pets and livestock. In addition, temporary shelters were set up at the Jessie Turner Health & Fitness Community Center in Fontana and the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds in Victorville. Animal Care teams brought in kennels and other essential supplies to these locations to accommodate animals. The Jessie Turner Health & Fitness Community Center is equipped to care for domestic pets, while the Fairgrounds can support both domestic pets and livestock for those impacted by both the Bridge and Line Fires.
Currently, Animal Care is sheltering more than 600 animals across the three locations ranging from cats, dogs and birds, livestock such as pigs, horses, goats and poultry, and exotic animals such as lizards, turtles and alpacas.
The shelters established by Animal Care offer a range of features. Pets receive food, water and enjoy air-conditioned spaces to stay cool. The 24/7 Animal Care staff are on hand to provide support, with tall kennels. Larger dogs also have access to a dedicated dog run for exercise. Each shelter is equipped with blankets, leashes, collars, litter and puppy pads, along with treats to keep the animals happy. Pet owners have full access to their pets and are welcome to interact with them.
In addition to internal efforts, Animal Care has been supported by several rescue groups and partnering agencies to help relieve capacity at the Devore Animal Shelter. By transferring adoptable animals, these organizations have allowed more space for those displaced by the fires.
Available shelters
If your pet is being affected by a regional fire, they can be sheltered at the following locations:
Devore Animal Shelter
19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino
(909) 386-9820 | After hours: (800) 472-5609
Open 7 days a week: 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (Weds. until 7 p.m.), Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
This location will shelter domestic pets and livestock. Pets temporarily staying at this facility should have identification (collar and tags) and any necessary medication(s). When dropping off your pet(s), ensure they are in an appropriately sized pet carrier.
If you are staying at the following evacuation centers, your pet is allowed to be sheltered on-site.
Jessie Turner Health & Fitness Community Center (domestic pets)
15556 Summit Ave., Fontana
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds (domestic pets and livestock)
14800 7th St., Victorville
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