Two ponies were lost in the Palisades fire but have been recovered following the heroic rescue efforts of In Defense of Animals (IDA) board member Sammy Zablen and her team, in collaboration with Advanced Fire Rescue and Lifesavers Wild Horse Rescue.
Philozoia Animal Rescue initially called for assistance to evacuate their ponies in Malibu, and Zablen and her team stepped up to help.
Courtesy of In Defense of Animals
The drive over, which would normally take 20 minutes, took more than three hours due to a perilous landscape of fallen trees, rockslides, and debris obstructing the road. Once there, they discovered the animals were missing. They searched for 30 minutes and then left behind food, water, and poured water on the roof to prevent more fires.
Thankfully, the ponies were successfully recovered and reunited with their caretakers. One pig and 38 dogs were also evacuated earlier in the day and the rescue is looking for help to foster some senior dogs.
Sadly, Philozoia’s entire facility was destroyed in the fire and it will be a long road to rebuilding their rescue center.
Courtesy of In Defense of Animals
“The devastation of these fires is unimaginable, and animals are often the most vulnerable victims,” said Marilyn Kroplick, M.D., President of In Defense of Animals.
Lady Freethinker deeply appreciates the unwavering dedication of In Defense of Animals, Advanced Fire Rescue, and Lifesavers Wild Horse Rescue. We applaud the remarkable bravery of everyone involved in rescuing these innocent animals during times of crisis.
In Defense of Animals urges anyone needing assistance with animal evacuations or free, temporary housing for wild or domestic animals to call Sammy Zablen at 310-869-2383.
