As firefighters worked to protect homes and contain the 3-1 Fire near Little Valley, they also rescued six lives that couldn’t call for help themselves.
A CAL FIRE Devil’s Garden hand crew discovered six young puppies in the active fire area while battling the wildfire. With flames threatening the area, the firefighters carefully gathered the puppies and carried them to safety before turning them over to their Division Supervisor.
A Lassen County Sheriff’s deputy assigned to the incident then transported the puppies to the Lassen County Animal Shelter, where they are now receiving food, water, and care.
The rescue is a reminder that wildfire response is about more than protecting homes and infrastructure. It also means looking out for the animals caught in harm’s way.
“Our firefighters are committed to protecting lives, property, and the communities we serve—including our four-legged friends,” CAL FIRE said in announcing the rescue.
CAL FIRE also thanked the Devil’s Garden crew, the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lassen County Animal Shelter for working together to ensure the puppies were safely removed from danger.
The shelter has not released information on where the puppies came from or whether an owner has been identified. For now, thanks to the quick actions of first responders, the six puppies are safe and have a chance to find their way home—or perhaps begin a new chapter.
