In a heartwarming turn of events amid the devastating Los Angeles County wildfires, a 100-pound pet tortoise named Rocky has been reunited with his family after surviving the Eaton fire that destroyed their Altadena home.
The San Dimas Sheriff's Station discovered Rocky alive in a hole in the family's backyard. A touching video shared by the sheriff's station captured the emotional reunion, showing the tortoise's owner joyfully embracing the officers and celebrating with raised arms, exclaiming "Yay! Rocky's home!"
Rocky's survival story echoes another recent tortoise rescue in the area. Earlier this month, a Pasadena family was forced to evacuate with their 200-pound tortoise, Huckleberry. Unable to find accommodation that would accept their unique pet, they temporarily housed him at Pasadena Humane until they could care for him again.
The Pasadena Humane shelter has become a sanctuary for hundreds of pets displaced by the wildfires. The facility has transformed into an emergency boarding center, taking in over 800 animals since the fires began on January 7. The community's response has been overwhelming, with residents donating supplies like food bowls, blankets, and large crates.
A team of emergency veterinarians works around the clock at the shelter, treating injured animals and providing care for pets whose families have lost their homes. The shelter's efforts, supported by organizations like Best Friends and San Diego Humane Society, have helped countless animals and their owners navigate this challenging time.
Rocky's reunion with his family represents a bright moment of hope as Los Angeles residents continue to grapple with the wildfire's impact on their communities and loved ones, including their beloved pets.