Thousand Palms, CA – Tense moments unfolded Tuesday morning, May 13, when a fast-moving fire broke out near the Animal Samaritans No-Kill Shelter in Thousand Palms. Thanks to the quick thinking, teamwork, and compassion of shelter staff, volunteers, firefighters, and members of the community, all 45 animals at the shelter were safely evacuated — with no injuries to humans or animals.
The fire, which started around 9:30 a.m. near Ramon Road and Varner Road, forced immediate action as high winds threatened to spread flames quickly toward the facility. Within 20 minutes, the shelter animals were safely relocated to the nearby Animal Samaritans Thousand Palms Veterinary Clinic, located just one mile away.
“We had admin staff, shelter staff, and even volunteers helping with the cat carriers and smaller dogs,” said Tom Snyder, CEO of Animal Samaritans. “Within 20 minutes, we were able to get the animals out.”
Shelter and administrative staff, along with volunteers and caring citizens who witnessed the unfolding crisis, worked side by side to transport animals to safety. Meanwhile, the Rancho Mirage Fire Station #69 battled the blaze under extremely difficult wind conditions. According to Cal Fire Riverside County Chief John Clingingsmith Jr., strong gusts posed a significant threat of spreading embers to nearby structures and vegetation.
“There was a small spot of vegetation on the property that caught fire due to embers,” Clingingsmith said. “That’s always a concern for us — the potential for exposure to people and property.”
While the fire was fully contained within an hour, it left behind substantial damage: a trailer and two vehicles were destroyed, and the shelter’s play yard, dog run, outdoor awning, security cameras, and several rear windows were damaged or blown out by the heat and pressure.
Animal Samaritans is currently working with a disaster relief company and its insurance provider to restore the damaged areas. Remarkably, the shelter began moving animals back into the facility on Wednesday, May 14, and hopes to reopen to the public on Thursday, May 15.
“It was very scary, very intense,” one employee shared. “A lot of our staff are needing to take a few minutes to just catch their breath.”
The shelter's readiness — including a well-rehearsed emergency plan, transport van, and prepped carriers — helped prevent what could have been a devastating outcome. “Luckily, the fire happened during business hours,” Snyder said. “Everyone was here and able to act quickly.”
Animal Samaritans extends heartfelt gratitude to the Rancho Mirage Fire Department, the shelter team, volunteers, and the community members who stepped up in a moment of crisis.
“We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our Coachella Valley community,” said Snyder. “The compassion, care, and concern for our shelter pets and staff has meant the world to us during this difficult time.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Animal Samaritans No Kill Shelter is excited to announce we will reopen to the public on Thursday, May 15th at 10am.
For more information, please contact Valerie Kattz, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist/Animal Samaritans, at 760-601-3930 or by email at vkattz@animalsamaritans.org
About Animal Samaritans
Animal Samaritans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need. Our no-kill shelter, veterinary clinics, and community programs serve pets and people throughout the Coachella Valley.
Animal Samaritans
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Valerie Kattz Marketing & Public Relations
- May 14, 2025
- (760) 343-3477
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