IFAW team deploys to California to support animal rescue amidst ‘monster’ Park Fire

Local organisation Buster's Paw Prints has been delegated by the Tehama County Sheriff's Office to manage animal sheltering and related services during Park Fire response operations. A significant portion of Tehama County remains under evacuation orders or warnings.

As a trusted and committed partner in responding to wildfires in the region The Buster's team contacted IFAW on Monday for support. Buster's Paw Prints has opened a temporary shelter inside a large barn located out of harm's way to support small domestic animals. This is their first temporary shelter, and as county services are overwhelmed, the organisation is working 24/7 alongside volunteers. Tehama County has also opened two temporary, self-serve shelters for large animals.

On 31 July, IFAW's team began deploying to Tehama County to assist with the duties and operations of the temporary shelters, discuss mutual aid between counties, and support pet reunification and placement for longer-term needs.

IFAW has a long history working with NVADG and county authorities in the nearby Butte County, responding to past wildfires. Fortunately, Park Fire evacuation orders for most of Butte County have now been lifted.