Arizona Horse Rescues Mobilize to Aid Evacuated Animals in Southern California: Here’s How You Can Make a Difference

CAVE CREEK, Ariz. — Two Arizona-based non-profit organizations are mobilizing to assist horses displaced by escalating wildfires in Southern California. Horses Help and One Step Wild Burros and Mustang Rescue are collecting essential supplies and preparing a shipment for delivery on January 17.

Stacie Thomas, founder of One Step Wild Burros and Mustang Rescue, shared that her organization has previously responded to similar emergencies, including the Malibu fires several years ago. At that time, community support enabled them to provide critical assistance to animals in need.

“We were able to help so many animals and people. We even found a home for a little Chihuahua that was surrendered,” Thomas recalled. “It was truly heartwarming.”

The upcoming effort will reach multiple evacuation sites, including Rose Bowl Stadium, where many animals are being sheltered. Gregg Goodman, CEO of Horses Help, emphasized the organization’s history of serving as an evacuation point for horses throughout the Valley.

“This is a good first step into supporting some really tremendous people trying to do a good thing,” Goodman commented on the collaborative initiative.

Understanding the needs of the evacuated horses, volunteer Crystal Haire pointed out the surprising similarities between equine and human care. “Most first aid supplies applicable to humans can also be used for horses,” she stated, highlighting the practical nature of animal husbandry.

For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made through a dedicated Amazon wish list or at Tacks Fifth Avenue, Horses Help’s thrift store. The organizations are also seeking supplies for other animals such as cats, dogs, chickens, goats, and pigs.

If financial contributions are preferred, donors can support the initiative through the PATH International Disaster Relief Fund. The first truckload of supplies is scheduled for departure on January 17, with further runs anticipated as needs arise.

Both organizations express gratitude for the community’s support during this critical time, emphasizing the collective effort to assist those affected by the fires in Southern California.