West Fire leaves dog injured, homeless | Community Spirit

As devastating as the West Fire was, people weren't the only ones who were affected; animals were also victims.

One of those victims is a dog named "Ashley" who is now looking for a new home.

Ashley has been through a lot. "She had a lot of smoke inhalation, singeing marks on her paws and skin, her face has short fur from being singed," explained Zach Skow owner of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue in Tehachapi, where Ashley is staying.

The West Fire ultimately burned more than 1,600 acres and left nearly two-dozen people homeless.

It's also responsible for Ashley's name, since she was found covered in ash.

"Just covered," said Skow, "It was in her teeth her eyes her ears."

During the fire, animal control made it a point to search the area and rescue pets from the flames. Ashley was one of the lucky ones.

"There were two other dogs in the animal control vehicle that had been chained up (during the fire), and they didn't make it," recalled Skow, "They were barely recognizable as dogs."

After being rescued Ashley was brought to Marley's Mutts.

"Anytime a dog's been through trauma like that you worry about how they're going to adjust," said Skow. "Since she came up to the rescue she's been terrific. Very easy to handle, gets along with the other dogs at the rescue."

While Marley's Mutts has been a good temporary home, Skow thinks Ashley is ready for something more permanent. Skow hopes they can find Ashley's true owner, but if not they'll look for the best forever home for her.

If you would like more information about Ashley go to www.marleysmutts.com or call 661-972-3852.