In response to the ongoing local state of emergency resulting from the North Hangar Fire in Tustin, California, we partnered with Orange County Animal Care (OCAC) to fly more than 100 shelter dogs to the ASPCA’s recovery center in Columbus, Ohio, just before the Thanksgiving holiday. Ongoing flare-ups, high winds, and announced deconstruction of the remaining structure, which is in close proximity to the shelter, have prevented staff from safely bringing the dogs in their care outside for walks, exercise, and playtime.

To combat this concern and ensure the dogs continue to receive the care they need, they are being flown to our facility, which is dedicated to the recovery of some of the country’s most vulnerable animals, including those displaced by emergency situations like this. The dogs will then be placed with partner shelters and made available for adoption in the coming weeks.

We are continuing to work with OCAC to assist with additional needs during this difficult time, including supporting their kitten nursery by transporting kittens that require specialized care out of the shelter in the coming days and working with them to develop a comprehensive disaster plan for future emergencies.

“The ASPCA is uniquely positioned to support shelter partners across the country during emergency situations by quickly mobilizing and providing critical resources and services that alleviate strain on local animal welfare organizations and keep vulnerable animals out of harm’s way,” said Karen Walsh, Senior Director of ASPCA Animal Relocation. “We are grateful to Orange County Animal Care for their ongoing efforts to prioritize the wellbeing of the animals in their care and are proud to collaborate with them to move these animals to safety and provide them with a second chance at finding loving homes.”

Since the onset of the fire, OCAC has responded quickly to put protective measures in place to ensure the continued safety of all staff, animals and visitors. This includes widespread efforts to partner with local, state and national agencies to move animals out of the shelter through transport programs and community pleas to help place dogs into foster homes.

“Our team at OC Animal Care has been at modified operations since November 7, when the North Hangar initially caught fire, which includes limiting dogs to the inside portion of their kennels,” said Monica Schmidt, Interim Director. “This partnership with the ASPCA, including their commitment to providing vital resources, is affording over 100 dogs the opportunity to relocate from our shelter as modified operations continue with no definite end date. We are incredibly grateful to our partners at the ASPCA, who like us and our community, care deeply for the dogs in Orange County.”