Safe and Sound

On Sunday and Monday, high winds swept across California, igniting wildfires in several large communities including Santa Rosa (north of San Fransisco) and Anaheim Hills (Los Angeles). Two large fires also struck Bakersfield, both within an hour of each other.

The first began in the south of town, burning several homes, but more tragically, approximately 20 horses were also killed. The second fire occurred along the river in Oildale. At least 5 horses were killed in that blaze. Thanks to the quick thinking of several firefighters, many horses were let loose, ultimately saving their lives.

Photo Credit: Debra Self

The fire in Oildale decimated an entire boarding facility, including the owners' home. A call has gone out to help this family get back on its feet. If you would like to help, here is how you can do that.

​For the victims of the Jackson Fire

You all know about the Jackson stables fire. This fire took the entire property along with the house and stables and everything in its path. The Jackson’s are good people and always there to help when needed well now they need it. We are in need of supplies. Gloves, masks, water for clean up. Shovels, rakes, anything to help clean.

Also in need of clothing items Ted 38 and 2x in shirts denise 14/16 lrg. In shirt teddy 2x in shirt 38 pants. Desperately need toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner body wash soap toothbrush toothpaste etc. they lost everything. We are setting up at willow tree stables for anyone that can help.

Horses are displaced and owners are in need of hay and feed and all items horse you can spare. As you can imagine a lot of tack was perished. 5 horses were lost and 1 put down and 2 fighting.

Gift cards are perfect. Hay is essential. This is for all the victims of the Jackson fire to feed their horses as well as Ted and Denise to feed theirs. Dog food for her dogs is appreciated.

Anything you can help with please take to willow tree stables to Melinda and help these people get back on their feet.

Extra boots? Bring em. Extra hands for clean up? Bring em. These people who boarded at this stables are a family. Once my family. And they need help. You can contact me [Debra Self] or more information if you need it or bring anything you can to willow tree stables on willow drive and Oildale drive behind K&R stables.

Remember NOTHING IS TOO SMALL

Photo Credit: Debra Self

Several friends have asked if my own equine family is safe, so I wanted to assure you that yes, we are fine. This is a terrible tragedy, and every horse owner in town has hugged their own ponies, thankful that they are safe. A barn fire is an owner's worst nightmare.