URGENT UPDATE: Ted Koerner has successfully rebuilt his home in Altadena, California, just over four months after it was destroyed in the devastating 2025 wildfires. The emotional journey was fueled by his deep bond with his beloved golden retriever, Daisy Mae, whom he feared he might lose before the reconstruction was complete.
On December 11, 2025, Koerner was seen sitting on the porch of his newly rebuilt home, with Daisy Mae joyfully playing in the backyard beneath their cherished 175-year-old Heritage Oak. This scene, once thought lost forever, signifies a remarkable turnaround after the wildfires ravaged thousands of homes, resulting in 31 fatalities.
Just days before the flames engulfed his neighborhood, Koerner made a frantic escape from his home, taking little more than a few articles of clothing and two precious photographs of Daisy Mae. “I drove away as the flames were at the end of my street,” he recalled, highlighting the urgency of his situation.
Initially, Koerner and Daisy Mae found refuge in a hotel, sharing space with hundreds of other evacuees. As they walked on the hardened ash, Koerner’s heart was heavy with worry about Daisy Mae’s health. He had lived alone with her for over a decade and knew time was of the essence.
To expedite the rebuilding process, Koerner liquidated most of his retirement savings, investing in the reconstruction to ensure that he could return home soon. “I told my mortgage servicing company early on that I needed to get home with my dog before she passes,” he said, emphasizing the emotional stakes involved.
In an inspiring turn of events, construction was completed in just over four months. The first time Koerner brought Daisy Mae back to the site, she walked straight into her future home, instantly recognizing the familiar surroundings. “She sat down with a big smile on her face, and it was like she was saying, ‘OK, the house is still here,’” Koerner shared, his eyes welling with tears.
Now, with the reconstruction complete, Koerner reflects on the emotional toll of the entire experience. “I went into the house and cried a lot,” he said. “It still has that effect. I’m actually home with my dog.”
This heartwarming story not only highlights the resilience of individuals in the face of disaster but also underscores the profound connections we share with our pets. As communities continue to rebuild from the ravages of the wildfires, Koerner’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of what truly matters.
As recovery efforts continue in areas affected by the wildfires, residents are urged to stay informed about local support resources. Koerner’s story is a testament to the incredible bonds we forge, pushing us to share and uplift each other during the most challenging times.
Stay tuned for more updates as recovery efforts unfold across the region.
