Dog Left Behind in L.A. Wildfire Was Alone and Scared — Until Sam Alexis Woods Stepped In and Changed Everything
As wildfires swept through parts of Los Angeles last week, chaos and evacuation orders forced thousands to flee their homes — and in the panic, not every life made it out in time. One small, trembling dog was left behind, trapped near a burned-out property in the hills, surrounded by smoke and ash.
But fate had a different plan for the frightened pup.
17-year-old Sam Alexis Woods, daughter of golf legend Tiger Woods, was volunteering with a local relief group when she spotted the dog huddled under a scorched bush.
“He looked like he hadn’t eaten in days,” Sam said. “His fur was singed, and he was shaking. I knew I couldn’t leave him there.”
Sam coaxed the dog out with water and bits of food, eventually wrapping him in her jacket. She named him Ash — after the disaster he survived — and took him to a nearby shelter. But after learning that no one had claimed him and he faced an uncertain future, Sam made a decision that would change both their lives.
“I asked my parents if we could keep him,” Sam said. “I couldn’t stop thinking about him. He’d already been through so much.”
With her family’s blessing, Ash was adopted — and is now living in comfort at the Woods residence, complete with a soft bed, plenty of toys, and more love than he ever imagined.
“He follows Sam everywhere,” one family friend shared. “He’s totally bonded with her. It’s like he knows she saved him.”
Photos of Sam with Ash — from the rescue scene to their first day at home — have gone viral on social media, with fans applauding her compassion and maturity.
Tiger Woods also chimed in on Instagram:
“Proud of my daughter for stepping up when it mattered. Welcome to the family, Ash.”
Animal rescue groups have praised Sam’s actions as inspiring and say her story has already led to an increase in pet adoptions post-wildfire.
In a time of tragedy, one young woman’s act of kindness gave a second chance to a dog who had lost everything. And now, in a peaceful new home with the Woods family, Ash is finally safe — and loved — for life.