Ruben, a 7-year-old horse, escaped with burns on more than 65 percent of his body.
Hundreds of horses have been rushed to safety as Southern California wildfires hit local ranches and stables Tuesday.
Ruben, a 7-year-old horse, escaped the 11,000-acre strong Creek fire with burns on more than 65 percent of his body. One of his eyes is swollen and his eyelashes and mane have been burned.
He is expected to make a full recovery, and is currently being treated with IV antibiotics and pain medication.
“I’m very fortunate that he is alive because so many people lost their horses,” his owner, Virginia Padilla, told KCBS.
Padilla, who owns a ranch in Tujunga, recalled being evacuated at 4 a.m., unable to bring any of her horses with her.
Fortunately, Los Angeles Animal Control were able to bring 15 horses to safety, however, Padilla said she has no update on the condition or whereabouts of her other 45 horses.
“It’s awful," she said. "There’s no words."
Ruben and more than 200 horses and wild animals are receiving veterinary treatment at facilities like Pierce College Equine Center, Hansen Dam Equestrian Center and the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
Additional stalls are being built in anticipation for more arrivals.
Locals have taken to social media to urge people with trailers to volunteer to transport additional horses to safety as many ranch owners fear they do not have enough resources to evacuate their horses.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department is urging locals to evacuate to safety.
RELATED STORIES
