Have you seen the viral video of dog Orio being reunited with his owner during LA wildfires?

When wildfires and disasters strike, pets are often the forgotten victims. The story of Oreo, the dog who survived the devastating Los Angeles fire and was later reunited with his owner, highlights the urgent need for better emergency protections for animals.

The FOUND Act - a new bill introduced in California - calls for local jurisdictions to include a process in their emergency plans to retrieve animals left behind during mandatory evacuations.

It also seeks to have cities establish an emergency rescue hotline to help evacuees get assistance.

This legislation, authored by Assembly member Rick Zbur, would make a real difference for families and their beloved pets, ensuring they are not left behind in times of crisis.

"I don’t want there to be another person sobbing on the side of the road, begging the police to let them get to their dog," said Colvin, whose dog was saved.

By supporting this bill, California can set an example for the rest of the country, prioritizing the safety and well-being of pets during disasters.

We call on lawmakers to pass this important legislation to ensure pets are part of emergency response efforts.