The Dog They Almost Forgot: Deaf Senior Pup Henry Survives Los Angeles Wildfires
In January, as devastating wildfires raged through Los Angeles, chaos swept across neighborhoods — forcing families, businesses, and shelters to evacuate within minutes. One local animal shelter had just 30 minutes to move all 60 of their dogs to safety. Staff and volunteers scrambled, dogs barked in fear, and panic filled the air.
But in the middle of the noise, one dog remained perfectly still.
Henry, a gentle senior pup who also happens to be deaf, sat calmly in the back of his kennel. He couldn’t hear the barking, the shouting, or the urgency around him. His quietness, sadly, led to a heartbreaking mistake — in the rush to evacuate, Henry was left behind.
By the time staff realized, it was too late. The fire zone was too dangerous to re-enter, and they were devastated knowing he was alone. That night, Henry lay in his kennel, unaware of the danger and confusion swirling outside.
The next morning, rescuers from Starts With One Today rushed to the shelter. There they found Henry, no longer calm, but barking for help — frightened, confused, and desperate to be freed. He had inhaled smoke and needed urgent care, but his rescuers acted fast. With love, medicine, and gentle reassurance, Henry began to heal.
Then came the miracle twist. Dillon and Olivia, a young couple, saw Henry’s story online. They offered to foster him, but once they met Henry, there was no going back. He wasn’t just a foster — he was family.
Six months later, Henry’s life is full of peace and joy. The fire is now just a memory, and this senior boy spends his days napping in his dad’s workshop, enjoying long walks, and soaking up the love he nearly never got to experience.
From forgotten in the chaos, to forever cherished — Henry’s story reminds us that every life matters, even the quiet ones.