The Los Angeles Equestrian Center has reached full capacity for housing large animals as part of wildfire evacuation efforts.
Los Angeles continues to battle devastating wildfires that are impacting communities, wildlife, and those in the equestrian world. With flames tearing through brush-laden neighborhoods like Hollywood Hills and Pacific Palisades, the fires have left many scrambling to protect not only their homes but their animals. One group standing at the forefront is horse owners, who face the monumental task of safely evacuating their large and vulnerable companions.
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Fires Force Rapid Evacuations
Local emergency services have been stretched thin as they fight against high winds that worsen the fires’ spread. The Sunset Fire, for example, burned along Runyon Canyon and Wattles Park, forcing evacuations in Laurel Canyon and beyond. Meanwhile, the Palisades Fire has spread to over 15,000 acres with no containment in sight. Evacuation orders remain active for neighborhoods from Mulholland Drive to the 101 Freeway.
These fast-moving fires compound the challenges of large animal rescues, particularly horses, which require extra accommodation, space, and time to evacuate.
"We’ve Reached Full Capacity" – Los Angeles Equestrian Center Steps Up
The Los Angeles Equestrian Center (LAEC), known as a safe haven for animals in crises, has stepped in once again. However, as of last night, their facility has reached maximum capacity for housing large animals evacuated due to the ongoing wildfires. LAEC has multiple stables with room for 500 horses.
A statement on their Facebook page emphasizes the severity of the situation.
“As of last night, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center has reached full capacity for housing large animals as part of wildfire evacuation efforts. This update comes from the Los Angeles Emergency Management Department, which is managing the evacuation process.
If you need shelter for your animals, please contact:
South County Communication Center: (562) 940-6898
North County Communication Center: (661) 940-4191
Get real-time updates from LAFD Alerts (https://lafd.org/alerts).
Thank you for your understanding as we continue caring for animals already in our facility. We’ll provide updates as the situation evolves in collaboration with LA Recreation & Parks and county emergency organizations.
Please stay safe, have your evacuation plans ready, and stay informed with city updates.”
Heroes on the Ground
Despite being at capacity, the LAEC and other organizations are tirelessly working to assist as many animals and families as possible. They, along with county organizations and volunteers, are arranging for temporary stabling, transportation, and medical care. Animal services hotlines are operational, ready to connect families with viable shelter options for their horses.
Local residents have also joined rescue efforts, offering trailers, farmland, and supplies to displaced horse owners. Some volunteers monitor social media groups to connect those in need with resources.
Impact Beyond the Flames
The devastating fires have left a lasting impact on more than just forests and homes—they’re also reshaping the communities that rely on these natural landscapes. Wildlife continues to suffer the brunt of the destruction, losing not only their habitats but sometimes their lives to the flames. For equestrian communities, the loss might include not only property damage but the emotional toll of evacuating beloved animals in a state of distress.
The on-ground situation remains tense, with extreme winds predicted to continue until Wednesday, making containment efforts even more difficult. The city has maintained its Red Flag Parking Restrictions and issued advisory warnings to stay vigilantly prepared for evacuation instructions at a moment's notice.
How You Can Help
For those looking to assist, donations to organizations like the LAEC are urgently needed to cover shelter, food, and medical costs for the displaced horses. You can also lend a helping hand by offering horse trailers, stabling space, or volunteering in affected areas.
Above all, keep sharing updates from reliable sources such as LAFD Alerts so community members can act swiftly and stay safe.
Los Angeles’ equestrian community has made it through wildfires in the past, proving their resilience in even the toughest of times. With continued support from individuals and organizations, they are sure to persevere once again.
Stay safe, stay informed, and lend a hand where you can. Together, we can help both residents and their horses recover from this disaster.
