After the horrific wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed their home and separated them for over a year, a man and his dog are now back again.
In January 2025, Dominic and his Labrador-mix dog, Blade, managed to escape the Eaton Fire. However, after their Altadena property was reduced to rubble, Dominic had to make a devastating choice.
At least 31 people were killed and 57,000 acres of land were destroyed by the fires that tore through affluent LA neighbourhoods. One of the worst affected areas of the community was Altadena.
In an April 27 Facebook post, the animal shelter Pasadena Humane clarified that Dominic brought his puppy for emergency boarding in the hopes of finding a temporary solution while he looked for new accommodation.
But it took months to find them, and Blade ended up at the shelter along with many other dogs who had been displaced by the fire.
The puppy’s stay was made as enjoyable as possible by the shelter.”We made sure Blade got lots of playtime, ample enrichment, and a tonne of love over the weeks and months,” stated Pasadena Humane. “The cuddly lab mix spent time in many of our offices (and snuggled with our call center staff on a regular basis.”
In January 2025, Dominic and his Labrador-mix dog, Blade, managed to escape the Eaton fire.
Blade had nowhere to live, so Dominic took him to the Pasadena Humane animal shelter. Blade spent his time at the shelter tearing up cardboard boxes, taking walks, and being adored by the staff.
“He visited our Shelter Shop for delicious snacks, went for daily walks with our volunteers, and frequently engaged in his favourite activity, tearing up cardboard boxes.”
In April, fifteen months after the fires, Dominic went back to the shelter to take Blade to their new residence.
“Dominic hugged and thanked our staff and volunteers who cared for his beloved pup, with Blade even squeezing into the middle of one hug just to be a part of it,” the shelter wrote, adding that everyone was crying as they watched the two reunite and that it appeared to be the happiest Blade had ever been.
Sending Blade out to begin his new life made Pasadena Humane very happy.
Dominic and Blade were reunited after about 15 months. It seemed to be the happiest the dog has ever looked, according to the shelter.
At least 31 people were killed and 57,000 acres of land were destroyed in the January 2025 flames that ravaged affluent LA neighbourhoods.
Many people on the internet expressed how touching the endearing moment was.
“I am not crying,” a person commented. You do it because you care, which is what sets it apart from other shelters.
I’m grateful that you made this possible. Blade, have fun with your life.
“Huge kudos to Dominic for hanging in there,” another person said. Too many people give up. Dominic never gave up.
Naturally, I want to thank Pasadena Humane and the volunteers for persevering. I hope this couple will always be happy together.
“So great to hear!” wrote a third. Dominic and Blade, best wishes for your upcoming chapter. I appreciate what you do, Pasadena Humane! Years ago, I adopted my daughter from you.
