Viral video of fire victim reuniting with dog after Palisades Fire inspires new pet rescue bill
A viral video of a fire victim reuniting with his dog days after the Palisades fire erupted in January, has inspired a new bill aimed at protecting pets during emergencies and disasters.
Casey Colvin was not home when the fire broke out in his Pacific Palisades neighborhood and mandatory evacuation orders were issued. Local officials set up roadblocks prohibiting residents and traffic from entering certain fire zone areas.
CalFire Battalion Chief Brent Pascua offered to go to Colvin's home and search for his two dogs. Pascua was able to rescue one but his other dog, Oreo, was still missing.
As the fire continued to grow and spread Colvin's house was destroyed. Five days later, Colvin received a call from the Animal Advocacy Network, that Oreo was seen near his property. The reunification was captured on video and quickly went viral.
"You're seeing this surreal experience that you could only dream of," Colvin told KCAL News during an interview. "When you have the rallying support of the community… it really really helped me."
On Tuesday, Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur announced the Friends of Oreo Uniting During Disasters (FOUND Act). The bill is aimed at ensuring local governments have procedures in place to support pet owners during evacuations.
"Pets are more than just property—they are family," Zbur said. "When disaster strikes, no one should have to choose between their safety and their pet's survival."
A statement from Zbur's office said the bill is sponsored by Social Compassion in Legislation and helps promote legislation to save animals across the U.S. The key goals of the FOUND Act are pet rescue procedures, emergency preparedness resources and extended holding period for rescued pets.
"The FOUND Act ensures that local governments have clear rescue plans in place, so pet owners don't have to risk their lives to save their animals," Zbur said. "While we've seen incredible examples of fire and safety officials working alongside the public to reunite pets with their families, as well as the extraordinary efforts of local animal shelters and rescuers, we owe it to pet owners across California to ensure that every city and county has a plan in place before disaster strikes."
Zbur also said the bill is a critical step in the right direction as the state continues to face wildfire threats. The legislation is expected to be introduced to a policy committee in the coming days.
