Fire Watch

Shelters open for Sawtooth Fire animal evacuees

Posted: Sep 11, 2012 7:50 AM by MTN News

HAMILTON- The Sawtooth Fire roared to life near Hamilton on Monday, prompting officials to evacuate hundreds of homes.
The American Red Cross set up a shelter at the First Baptist Church in Hamilton, and there are also at least two places in the Bitterroot where residents can take their animals.
The Ravalli County Fairgrounds on Old Corvallis Road began accepting livestock and large animals on Monday.
Evacuees who plan on dropping off livestock are asked to call (406) 363.3411 ahead of time if possible.
Some paperwork will need to be filled out, however if you arrive when the office is closed, the east gate will be open and livestock can be left in pens. The paperwork can be filled out the next day.
However, officials are reminding owners that it is their responsibility to care for their animals.
Meanwhile, the Bitter Root Humane Association in Hamilton contacted Montana's News Station late Monday to say they they are prepared to take in pets of people who have had to evacuate from the Sawtooth Fire.
They are open at 8 p.m. and are located on Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton and may be reached by calling (406) 363-5449. They are accepting "companion animals."