The HSUS/Kathy Milani

A thirsty goat drinks water offered by a rescuer Oct. 25.

By Laura Bevan

Yesterday we drove way into the mountains north of Ramona to check on some dogs and goats. We found two dogs on site that had survived the burnover. They were in good flesh, but one was removed from the property to receive veterinary care for a neck injury.

We then found a large pen with 10 live goats and an large number of goats who didn't survive. It appeared some died of smoke inhalation, and others were killed directly by fire. There have been many happy stories in the wake of these fires—and some achingly sad ones.

One goat had worrisome burns and eye problems. She was the tamest of the bunch, which isn't saying much. Once she was captured, the decision was made to capture the rest, since the pen they were in still had smoldering manure piles, dead carcasses of fire victims, and because the owner had limited ability to bring in large quantities of water.

We were joined by the local police team with a horse trailer and finally were able to capture all the goats. Three more "tame" goats were picked up at another location on the property.

Conditions Worsened by Disaster

After we left that property, part of the team went to check on 40 chinchillas whose owner evacuated, but could not get back because of roadblocks. The housing was filthy, but the animals were thrilled to get water and food.

The other part of the team (Diane and I) went to check on some ducks whose owner evacuated, but also couldn't return. The ducks were okay, and we spoke at length with a neighbor who is now providing care for the ducks along with a large gaggle of geese who had been rescued from their burning shed. The neighbor also showed us several ponies and horses that he rescued from the fires. He told us about evacuating his nine Boisoi dogs before returning to join other neighbors in saving their homes and the animals left behind in their community.

We then received a priority call to join animal control officers in that area on a call to help cats. When we arrived, we found what appeared to be signs of possible hoarding—10 cats, most caged, were living in several inches of filthy impacted papers. All 10 cats were removed from the property.

We then checked on another large group of ducks and geese. We provided clean food and water that should hold them until the owner returns.

As we drove past the roadblocks into Ramona, cars and trucks were lined up on both sides of the street waiting to re-enter. We heard later that the Ramona residents were eventually allowed to go home.

Rescue workers are finding some of these animals in dire straits—situations made critical because of the death and destruction caused by the fires.

Help For Those Who Need It Most

The most touching story of the day came when we were re-grouping in downtown Ramona.

An older man rode up on his bike and asked for help. Diane approached him and he explained that his parents evacuated, but did not take their cats. He had no money to buy food and was trying to feed them out of the tiny bags of cat treats.

He was clearly embarrassed, but Diane asked him if he wanted cat food and then gave him a 20 pound bag we had in the SUV. He was so stunned and appreciative, he started crying. Diane gave him a hug, and he couldn't thank us enough. It was a small gesture on our part, but meant a lot to the man and, maybe, life or death for the cats.

So, right now things are winding down, just about as fast as the fires sprung up. We are concerned that as folks go back to their homes and neighborhoods, Animal Services will get a flood of calls for animals injured or still without caretakers.

We will see how it goes over the weekend.