By Linda Kor As the Wyrick Fire threatens homes in the Heber/Overgaard area, the Navajo County Fairgrounds has become a sanctuary for people needing to evacuate pets and livestock. Manager and Events Director Michelle Stock said that the fairgrounds has plenty of space and thanks to volunteers and donations, plenty of help and feed for animals. “It’s really been overwhelming how generous people have been. We’ve had donations of feed, water, snacks for volunteers. We’ve also had people come out to help sit with the animals,” stated Stock. One volunteer is Robin Owens of Snowflake. She was found sitting with about 15 dogs who were anxious, afraid and missing their owners. “I got the text that help was needed so I just came out,” she said. Other volunteers like Cameron Bonitto and others with the Coconino Humane Association Emergency Response from Flagstaff were a welcome site for Stock. “When I got the call that we would be taking animals in I thought that was wonderful but I’d never dealt with this kind of circumstance before,” she said. While the fairgrounds has plenty of space for larger animals such as horses, cows, chickens, pigs and goats, there were no cages to house dogs or cats on the property. “It was such a relief when these gals showed up. They brought the cages and knew just what to do.” As of Tuesday, the fairgrounds had taken in dogs, cats, chickens and horses from residents affected by the fire. One of those residents, Norm Guillory of Overgaard, brought his animals and was sleeping in his car at the fairgrounds to ensure each of his five dogs knew he was close by and to give them their medications. “The fire was about 2.5. miles from my property. I have a house cam so I see that everything is still there so far. I’m just glad that what’s important is right here with me.” Stock noted that a big contributor to the supplies was the local Tractor Supply, which delivered bags and bags of pet food. People also donated funds to Tractor Supply to bring even more. “It’s been such an incredible outpouring of support from local people. I can’t say thank you enough. It’s really been something to see,” stated Stock. As the fire continues to grow more people are expected at the fairgrounds. In addition, the Red Cross has set up at the gym at Holbrook High School with cots, snacks and water for those in need. The fairgrounds are located at 404 E. Hopi Drive in Holbrook, or call (928) 524-4757 for more information.
