Key Points
- An emergency relief drive has been set up by WSU Extension and 4-H in Spokane County to assist in providing help for the animals and their owners affected by the recent wildfires.
- There will be a particular day for the donation of horse equipment and gear that will occur on Saturday, August 8th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- “Paws of Hope” pet relief drive will collect necessary supplies like food and cleaning products until Tuesday, August 11th.
- All donations for both events can be made to the WSU Spokane County Extension Office at 222 N. Havana St., Spokane, Washington.
- Both of these relief activities have been organized as a consequence of the devastation at the local boarding stables.
Spokane (Evening Washington News) August 7, 2026 – As the Spokane community grapples with the aftermath of recent wildfires, Washington State University (WSU) Extension and Spokane County 4-H have mobilised to provide critical support for affected animals and their owners. The organisations are hosting a series of relief events, including an equipment giveaway for horse owners and a supply drive for displaced pets, aiming to bridge the gap between community generosity and the immediate needs of fire-impacted families.
How are WSU Extension and 4-H helping the horse community?
The horse equipment giveaway, scheduled for Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., is designed to provide direct assistance to equestrian families who lost their gear during the blazes. The event will feature new or gently used saddles, bridles, bits, reins, blankets, and grooming supplies, which will be available to families impacted by the fires at the WSU Spokane County Extension office.
According to Kate McCloskey, WSU Spokane County 4-H program coordinator, the initiative was born out of a specific need following the destruction of a local boarding stable. As reported by Will Ferguson of WSU News & Media Relations, approximately 60 horses were successfully evacuated from the facility; however, the barn itself and much of the essential equipment stored within it were lost.
“We were heartbroken because these kids still have plans to go to shows and fairs this summer,” Ms McCloskey stated, as quoted by WSU News & Media Relations. “They saved their horses, but they lost saddles, bridles, brushes and all the other equipment that goes with them”.
Beyond providing aid, the event also serves as a hub for ongoing support. Community members are encouraged to bring additional horse-related donations to the site. Furthermore, organisers are seeking volunteers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to assist with unloading and sorting donations, cleaning the facility, and supporting the families in attendance.
What is the ‘Paws of Hope’ pet relief drive?
In addition to the equine support, the “Paws of Hope” pet relief drive is actively collecting supplies for small animals. This initiative focuses on gathering new, unopened, and unexpired dog food, cat food, cat litter, paper towels, and various cleaning supplies.
These donations are destined for SpokAnimal, an organisation that has been instrumental in sheltering displaced animals and assisting evacuated families in caring for their pets. The collection period for these essential items runs through Tuesday, August 11.
Jennifer Fees, a WSU Spokane County 4-H program coordinator and educator, highlighted the dire circumstances many families currently face. As documented by WSU News & Media Relations, Ms Fees noted,
“There are families who have their pets with them, but they need food because they lost everything in the fire”.
Ms Fees further emphasised,
“We’re keeping our list focused on what SpokAnimal needs most”.
Explore more Spokane News:
Spokane Family Escapes Fast Wildfire Before Home Burns Down, Spokane 2026
Spokane arson arrest, Old Trails Fire: Aaron Farinacci 2026
Where can residents drop off donations?
WSU Extension has designated their office at 222 N. Havana St, Spokane, Washington 99202, as the primary collection point for all donations. For those unable to deliver items in person, the organisation has provided options for online support.
Supplies can be shipped directly to the office via platforms such as Amazon or Chewy. Additionally, Spokane residents have the option to drop off donations at 826 E. Overbluff Road. For those wishing to provide financial assistance, monetary contributions can be made directly to SpokAnimal through their official channels, including a QR code provided on the WSU Extension flyer.
The overwhelming response from the public has been a focal point for the organisers. “The response from the Spokane community has been huge,” Ms McCloskey shared with WSU News & Media Relations. “People have offered equipment, supplies and their time, and our job is to connect that support with families who need it”.
What is the mission of WSU Extension and 4-H?
WSU Extension serves as the public outreach arm of Washington State University, connecting local communities with university research, educational programmes, and essential resources. Spokane County 4-H, operating under the WSU Extension umbrella, functions as a youth development programme that works in partnership with volunteers and local community organisations.
By leveraging these networks, WSU Extension aims to provide stability to rural and urban communities during times of crisis, such as the recent wildfires that have affected numerous families across the Inland Northwest. Through initiatives like the current relief drive, the organisation continues to prioritise the health and safety of both the citizens and the animals that are integral to the region’s agricultural and personal landscape.
For more information regarding donation requirements or volunteer opportunities, residents are encouraged to visit the official WSU Spokane County Extension website or contact their local office directly.
