Wildfires in Gironde: More than 300 animals evacuated from shelter

Mérignac – 29 July 2026: More than 300 dogs, cats and other animals have been evacuated from the SPA Bordeaux and Sud-Ouest shelter in Mérignac because of the wildfires in Gironde. The relocation became necessary after the fire situation in the Bordeaux area worsened and protective orders were issued for several areas. The animal shelter was located in an area affected by evacuations west of the metropolitan area.

According to the animal welfare organization, all animals in its care were moved to safe locations as a precaution. Foster families and other facilities helped provide accommodation. This was intended to prevent the animals from being endangered by smoke, heat or a rapid expansion of restricted areas. Animals requiring special medical care had to be cared for and transported separately.

The shelter’s operations are severely restricted. The 25 employees have been on reduced working hours since the weekend of July 25 and 26. For the facility, this affects not only daily care but also the intake of stray animals and adoptions. In Gironde, the SPA performs functions beyond animal welfare as a municipal holding facility. Its restrictions therefore also affect public services for surrounding municipalities.

The fires have led to large-scale evacuations across the department in recent days. Municipalities and neighborhoods west of Bordeaux, including parts of Mérignac, were affected. Security forces moved residents out of endangered zones, kept transport routes clear for emergency services and secured firefighting operations. Such restrictions also make it more difficult to access animal shelters and care for pets left behind.

Wildlife facilities were also affected. The care center of the bird protection organization LPO Aquitaine in Audenge was evacuated as early as July 23. Animals ready for release were set free, while other animals under care were transferred to a center in Tonneins. The two evacuations demonstrate how heavily a fire disaster strains the regional animal welfare infrastructure: transport, suitable accommodation and expert care must be organized within a short period of time.

The city of Mérignac and Bordeaux Métropole set up reception centers for people from the evacuation areas. Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport remained operational, according to a statement issued on July 26; however, the neighboring hotel zone was evacuated on the orders of the prefecture. This also complicated logistics for pet owners and aid organizations.

SPA Bordeaux and Sud-Ouest is requesting donations for accommodation and care. According to the association, all evacuated animals are now outside the shelter. Their return will depend on official clearance and the safety situation at the facility.