‘Tails’ From the Field - MVAS responds to local fires
Mission Viejo Animal Services recently responded to the "Niguel Fire" in Laguna Niguel and "73 Fire" in Laguna Hills. Animal Services deployed teams of animal control officers to help residents who may have required assistance with removing their animals from danger.
Fortunately, the fires were promptly contained by the Orange County Fire Authority, and no evacuation orders were issued. Despite this, animal control staff remained on scene and prepared to respond if any additional developments occurred. These incidents are always a valuable learning lesson to continue the refinement of emergency or disaster planning and response for the animal services team.
Situations like this serve as an important reminder that residents may be asked to evacuate rapidly at any time, and it is critical for residents to be prepared and have evacuation plans for pets and livestock.