Saving Lives Four Hooves at a Time
 Fire season is officially here. You can guess what that means...many animals will be in danger, their homes will be destroyed and they'll be forced to leave if they are fortunate enough to escape at all. When fire strikes, wild animals are not the only ones in danger, house-hold pets, and farm animals are as well. Sadly, many people do not plan a proper evacuation plan that includes their animals. That's where Viva Global Rescue comes in. This wonderful rescue was founded by Maya Benperlas & Kalli Quigg in Los Angeles. In the last year and a half, they have rescued over 1,100 animals in need. They work with disaster response teams in the Southern California fires to provide a comprehensive network and system of dispatchers, volunteers, trucks, and trailers to get hundreds and thousands of animals to safety.Â
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 In addition to rescuing animals from natural disasters, Viva also rescues animals from slaughter, abuse, and neglect. Our founder, Kristen Leanne, decided she wanted to step up and help. Viva Global Rescue was in need of a horse trailer to aid them in their rescues, Kristen Leanne didn't waste any time making sure that happened. We went in on a brand new trailer together for Viva! Now Viva has a trailer ready to go for quick rescues and no longer has to rent or borrow a trailer. After the trailer was purchased, Kristen visited the non-profit to meet some of the animals they have saved. She says it was a "memorable experience" that she won't soon forget. She looks forward to meeting some of the newer animals that have been rescued using the new trailer.Â
Meet Annie, she was the first horse rescued with the new trailer!Â
We encourage you to take a look at your own furry family members and make sure you have a disaster plan in place to get them to safety should you need to. Also, make sure you have plenty of food and water ready to go as well. You'll also want to assemble an emergency kit for your pets. Learn more about how to be prepared for an emergency here.Â
Your kit should include:
- Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or carriers to transport pets safely and ensure that they can’t escape.
- Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan and a manual can opener if you pet eats canned food.
- Medications and copies of medical records stored in a waterproof container.
- A first aid kit.
- Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost. Since many pets look alike, this will help to eliminate mistaken identity and confusion.
- Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets.
- Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable.
Make a disaster plan for your pets!
Thank you for your support Fox Fam, without you, this would not have been possible.Â
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-AF Team