More than 60 dogs rescued from Riverside County house fire as shelters reach 300% capacity

More than 60 dogs are safe after Riverside County Animal Services rescued them from a house fire near eastern Hemet.

The rescue happened Thursday, when crews responded to a home where dozens of dogs were inside during the fire. Animal Services teams worked to remove the animals and transport them to the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus for care.

Officials say the dogs are now safe and will soon be available for adoption.

“This type of large-scale rescue requires all of our teams to jump into action, and now we need the public's help to give these dogs a home,” said Field Commander Lesley Huennekens of Riverside County Animal Services.

The rescue comes at a time when the county’s shelters are already under severe strain. According to officials, Riverside County animal shelters are currently about 240% over capacity, housing more than 1,000 dogs.

After the latest rescue, the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus alone reached nearly 300% capacity.

Animal Services is asking the public to help by adopting, fostering or working with rescue groups to create space for the animals. To encourage adoptions, Riverside County has waived all adoption fees at its shelters through the end of March.

Adopted pets will still receive important services including spay or neuter surgery, microchipping, vaccinations and an engraved ID tag.

Officials say walk-ins are welcome at county shelters for anyone interested in adopting or fostering.

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