Help Animals Affected by Central Washington Wildfire

Hundreds of people and animals are threatened by a fast-moving wildfire that is burning near Cle Elum in Central Washington. Animals are being taken to the Kittitas County Fairgrounds where the Washington State Animal Response Team is caring for them along with the help of local veterinarians and residents. Along with other animals there are currently 40 unclaimed horses being housed there.



Here is what the need is for the animals right now according to the Washington State Animal Response Team. Hay and grain for large animals/horses can be dropped off at the Kittitas County Fair Grounds in Ellensburg. They are not housing small animals. Instead families are being referred to the local vet clinics for now and eventually the boarding facilities. Dog and cat food is needed and can be dropped off at the vet clinics here in Cle Elum and will be brought over to Ellensburg. Mt Stuart needs cat food only and Cascade East needs dog and cat food. The fair grounds do need people to answer phones. If you can help please call 509-933-8236.



Local authorities are working on getting a central number to have a database for needs and people willing to donate. We will let you know as soon as that number becomes available.



A state of emergency was proclaimed for Kittitas and Yakima counties to make available additional fire fighting resources to contain the Taylor Bridge Fire. Lt. Gov. Brad Owen signed the proclamation due to his status as acting governor when Gov. Chris Gregoire is out of state. The proclamation is in response to a specific request from the state Department of Natural Resources, according to a news release from the Governor’s Office.



DNR requested air support from the Washington National Guard to assist in containment efforts for the fire that has burned more than 60 homes, 20,000 acres and forced about 900 people to evacuate.