UPDATE: Ted Koerner has successfully rebuilt his home in Altadena, California, after it was devastated by the 2025 wildfires, prioritizing time with his cherished golden retriever, Daisy Mae. This remarkable journey, driven by love and urgency, showcases the profound bond between a man and his dog.
Just announced, Koerner’s home was reduced to ashes during the tragic series of fires that claimed 31 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. He and Daisy Mae narrowly escaped, grabbing only a few personal items as flames approached their street. For weeks, they found temporary refuge in a hotel alongside countless others affected by the Eaton and Palisades fires.
As rebuilding began, Koerner faced a daunting task. Concerned about Daisy Mae’s health, he expedited the process, liquidating his retirement holdings to ensure he could hire contractors swiftly. “I need to get home with my dog before she passes,” he told his mortgage servicing company. His determination to reunite with Daisy Mae was palpable—his beloved dog, who has been by his side for over a decade, meant everything to him.
After just over four months of construction, Koerner welcomed Daisy Mae back to their newly rebuilt home on December 11, 2025. In an emotional moment, Daisy Mae walked through the framed structure, instinctively heading to where the front door would be. “She sat down with a big smile on her face,” Koerner recalled, reflecting on the significance of that moment.
The rebuild, which emphasized speed and care, allowed Koerner to reclaim the space where he shared countless memories with his dog. “I went into the house and cried a lot,” Koerner said. “It still has that effect. I’m actually home with my dog.”
This heartfelt story illustrates the resilience of the human spirit and the deep connections we share with our pets. As communities continue to recover from the wildfires, Koerner’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and love.
For more stories on recovery and resilience in the face of disaster, follow our coverage.
