BC SPCA working to save stranded animals in wildfire zones
Published 11:12 am Thursday, August 13, 2026
The BC SPCA has boarded over 100 animals as wildfires rage across B.C.
Nearly 110 wildfires are active in the province right now, spurring 51 evacuation orders in different communities.
The BC SPCA said many people have had to leave their home and “make the impossible decision” to leave their animals behind.
Those worried about their marooned animals in evacuation zones have a helping hand, as the BC SPCA’s Animal Protection Service team is offering support by going beyond the fire lines to rescue and care for pets.
The BC SPCA has taken in 108 pet animals during recent wildfires, including dogs, cats, kittens, puppies and a gecko. So far, 28 of those pets have been reunited with their owners. The BC SPCA has also delivered in-field care to dozens of farm animals, birds and exotics, where extracting them was not feasible.
“Our animal protection officers are incredibly grateful to be able to provide this support during such a frightening and uncertain time. We understand how difficult it is for people to evacuate knowing their animals are still at home,” said Jamie Wiltse, BC SPCA regional manager of animal protection services, Thompson, Okanagan and Kootenays.
“Being able to check on their beloved animals, assist with their care, and provide updates can offer such a peace of mind to guardians.”
The BC SPCA thanked authorities in Clinton and Vernon for allowing them access to properties beyond fire lines.
“The outpouring of support we’ve seen from other organizations, whether it’s emergency response, local authorities, or other non-profits, has just been remarkable. We are all working toward the same goal of helping evacuees and their families – animals included – and it’s been so heartwarming. Without hesitation, the community continues to show up for each other,” Wiltse said.
“Anyone in the province impacted by the fires can call the provincial government’s Emergency Support Services toll free at 1-800-585-9559. Anyone seeking information about BC SPCA assistance during an emergency – such as emergency boarding or in-field care – may contact the BC SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722,” the BC SPCA said.
The BC SPCA is a non-profit organization receiving no government funding for emergency response and preparedness work. This work is 100 per cent funded by the public, the organization said. To support the BC SPCA donations can be made to spca.bc.ca/donations-make-a-gift or delivered to the nearest physical BC SPCA work.
“Thanks to the caring generosity from the Hartvikson/Llamzon Family, donations supporting emergency response work will be matched up to $25,000.”