As the Aspen Acres Fire burned more than 100,000 acres across Pueblo County, Colorado, more than 15,000 residents were forced to evacuate, leaving many worried not only about their homes but also their beloved animals.
For more than three weeks, pets, livestock and farm animals displaced by the wildfires relied on emergency sheltering and care while families waited to return home. Throughout the response and recovery efforts, communities and animal welfare partners came together to ensure these animals remained safe, cared for and one step closer to reunification.
Mission Overview
American Humane Society’s Rescue Team deployed to Colorado on July 7 to support the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region’s (HSPRR) emergency pet shelter, where displaced pets received daily care while their families were evacuated.
As the disaster evolved and residents began returning home, response efforts shifted to meet changing needs across the community. The Rescue Team transitioned operations to the Colorado State Fairgrounds, where 1700 evacuated livestock and farm animals were temporarily housed.
Working alongside the Pueblo County Community Animal Response Team (CART) and local officials, responders helped manage daily animal care, conduct welfare assessments, support owner reunifications, and identify safe temporary placements for animals unable to return home immediately.
Stories From the Field
Juney
When wildfire evacuation orders forced Juney’s family from their home, they were told they would have limited access to their property and few updates about when they could return. Amid the uncertainty, Juney found safety at the emergency shelter with our Rescue Team who walked, fed and provided comfort to her while her family focused on navigating the challenges ahead.
Despite being separated, their bond never wavered. Every day, Juney’s family visited for walks, cuddles, and quiet moments together, providing comfort and reassurance to one another during an incredibly stressful time. Their daily visits were a reminder that even in the midst of disaster, the connection between people and their pets can provide hope, stability and strength.
Pretty Girl the Wild Mustang
As flames from the Aspen Acres Fire illuminated the night sky outside her home, Colleen knew it was time to evacuate. She quickly loaded up her cat and her horse, Pretty Girl, and left before conditions worsened.
Pretty Girl is a 4-year-old wild mustang who Colleen rescued from a kill pen. Despite her difficult past, Pretty Girl has a gentle spirit and shares a special bond with her owner. While staying at the Colorado State Fairgrounds, she enjoyed spending time with Colleen during visits, offering both comfort and companionship amid the uncertainty. Colleen repeatedly expressed her gratitude for the care the Rescue Team provided Pretty Girl, saying she feels incredibly lucky to have her by her side.
Key Accomplishments
200 pets
cared for by our rescue team at the emergency shelter.
700 livestock animals
were cared for by our rescue team in temporary housing.
Thank You to Our Partners
Because of PEDIGREE Foundation and the generosity of so many people across the country, we could provide direct and immediate relief to animals and families impacted by the Aspen Acres Wildfires.
Generous donations of toys, treats and other critical resources from Nylabone, KONG, Benebone and Cat’s Pride helped bring comfort to hundreds of animals displaced by this disaster.
To learn more about American Humane Society’s rescue team, please visit: https://www.americanhumane.org/what-we-do/rescue-and-protect/
