When disaster strikes, whether through a large-scale animal seizure or a fast-moving wildfire, the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) works urgently to protect some of the most vulnerable victims: animals. DACC has developed a robust, coordinated approach to preparing for and managing sudden surges in animal intake during crises.

Planning Before the Crisis Hits

Preparation is everything. DACC doesn’t wait until an emergency unfolds—we plan year-round for high-intake scenarios. This includes maintaining detailed response protocols, conducting regular training exercises, and coordinating with law enforcement, fire departments, and animal welfare organizations.

For animal seizures—often involving neglect, hoarding, or illegal operations—DACC works closely with investigators to anticipate the number and types of animals involved. This allows us to plan for their housing and care and pre-stage supplies like food, medical equipment, and transport vehicles. Staff and volunteers are placed on standby, ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice.

Wildfires present a different challenge. They can displace hundreds of animals in a matter of hours. DACC monitors fire conditions during peak seasons and identifies potential evacuation zones in advance. Temporary shelters and fairgrounds may be designated as emergency animal housing sites, equipped to handle hundreds of large livestock.

Expanding Capacity Quickly

When a surge happens, space becomes the most immediate concern. DACC has seven animal care centers (ACCs) and can move animals between ACCs to make room for more incoming animals. We also activate mutual assistance agreements with neighboring jurisdictions and partner organizations to share the load. Many animal welfare agencies in California have helped DACC during emergencies by taking our adoptable animals so we have more room for those in need. Our partnership with Greater Good Charities has been a tremendous asset; they charter airplanes to fly our adoptable animals to other animal shelters in the United States. Through these partnerships, we can accommodate hundreds of displaced or seized dogs and cats.

Medical and Behavioral Support

Animals arriving from seizures or fires often need urgent care. Veterinary teams are on hand to perform triage, treat injuries, and address dehydration, smoke inhalation, illness, or

malnutrition. Behavioral staff also play a critical role, as many animals are frightened or traumatized. Creating a calm, structured environment helps stabilize them and improves their chances of recovery. DACC’s nonprofit supporting foundation, the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation, pays for medicine, special diets, grooming services, private veterinary care, and other urgent needs to make sure the animals receive the care they require.

Reunification and Community Support

One of DACC’s top priorities during disasters is reuniting pets with their families. We use microchip scanning, photo databases, and social media outreach to connect lost animals with their owners. For evacuees, DACC may provide temporary boarding so families can focus on their own safety and housing without abandoning their pets. has purchased small animal housing trailers with heat and air-conditioning that can be co-located at Red Cross shelters so pets and families can stay connected.

Community engagement is essential. DACC often works with volunteers and nonprofit partners to gather donations, foster animals, and support outreach efforts. Public education campaigns also encourage preparedness, such as keeping pet ID tags and microchip registries updated and having evacuation plans that include animals.

Learning and Adapting

After every major incident, DACC conducts after-action reviews to identify what worked and where improvements can be made. These lessons inform future planning, ensuring that we continue to evolve alongside the growing challenges posed by climate change and urban density.

Handling large-scale animal intake during seizures and fires is complex, emotional, and resource intensive. Through careful planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to animal welfare, DACC stands ready to respond when it matters most.

Marcia Mayeda, Director

Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: Director’s Blog

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charity that raises money to support DACC in its mission of saving animals and keeping pets and families together. Learn more at www.lacountyanimals.org.