Wildfires in Southern California have been burning since Sunday Oct 21st. These wildfires are a serious threat to the horses, as well as humans, in the area.

According to a story on TheHorse.com, by Erin Ryder, people have evacuated from Malibu to San Diego and almost 2,000 horses have been moved from their homes to safety at Del Mar race track. Del Mar is providing safety not just for thoroughbred race horses, but for as many horses as can be accommodated.

A story on Alertnet.org, by Ned Randolph states that another, 1,000 horses have been given shelter at nearby parks and polo grounds. Some horses were even allowed to join the many human evacuees who are staying at Qualcomm Stadium.

According to an Article on www.aztarnet.com , by Tom Beal, a few horses have been stalled at the Yuma county fair grounds in Yuma Arizona. Yuma currently has space to 191 horses, and is willing to take on human evacuees as well, though that has not yet been necessary.

Thus far, two human deaths have been reported as well as several injuries. The fires have destroyed approximately 300,000 acres and over 1500 building's including houses. .

Sources:

Tom Beal. Aztarnet.com. 23 Oct 2007. 23 Oct 2007. <http://www.azstarnet.com/sn/hourlyupdate/207743.php>

Erin Ryder. TheHorse.com. 22 Oct 2002. 23 Oct 2007. <http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=10654>

Ned Randolph. Alertnet.org. 23 Oct. 2007. 23 Oct 2007.

<http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/N23417820.htm>