Equestrians interested in helping California horse owners, riders and animals affected by the wildfires are encouraged to donate money through established organizations and registered nonprofits. Local residents are asked not to show up at animal shelters unannounced and instead should contact the organization first to coordinate assistance.

“DACC greatly appreciates the outpouring of support from our communities. We also want to remind those looking to help that during a crisis, organization and coordination are key,” the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control posted to social media Thursday. “Please do not show up at the sites or the shelters, as this can create confusion and distract staff from the task at hand.”

It, like other organizations, said the best way to help is to donate money toward relief efforts. Some of the organizations currently collecting money to help fire victims are:

• Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control, which handles animal control for Los Angeles County and has been coordinating evacuation shelters for large and small animals. For those looking to help in person, the agency said it is prioritizing volunteers with equine and livestock experience to help feed and muck out more than 200 evacuated horses, as well as help with new pick-ups. People must email volunteer@animalcare.lacounty.gov and await instructions, not show up unannounced at evacuation shelters.

• The Equestrian Aid Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund, which is providing emergency grants to help people affected by the fires cover essential costs. Apply for grants here, and donate here.

• Fleet Of Angels, a nonprofit that operates nationwide to help horse owners and small rescues in the face of natural disasters and other major emergencies. 

• USEF Disaster Relief Fund, managed by the U.S. Equestrian Association to help horses that are victims of natural disasters.

• LA Animal Services, which runs six city shelters in Los Angeles and has been accepting and coordinating evacuation shelters for large and small animals.