UPDATE: In a heartwarming yet urgent story, Ted Koerner has successfully rebuilt his home in Altadena, California, just in time to spend precious moments with his beloved golden retriever, Daisy Mae, who is nearing the end of her life. This emotional journey follows the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires that destroyed his home in 2025, killing 31 people and leaving countless others homeless.
Koerner, who has lived alone with Daisy Mae for over a decade, faced a race against time to complete the rebuild. He liquidated most of his retirement savings to hire contractors quickly, stating, “I need to get home with my dog before she passes.” The urgency of his situation compelled him to expedite the construction, which took just over four months.
On December 11, 2025, Koerner shared a poignant moment with Daisy Mae, watching her play in the backyard under the shade of a 175-year-old Heritage Oak. “The house is still here,” he recalled as Daisy Mae inspected her new home, a sight he feared he might never see again after fleeing the flames.
Following the wildfires, Koerner and Daisy Mae spent the initial weeks in a crowded hotel, grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Koerner’s greatest fear was losing Daisy Mae before the rebuilding process was complete. “If she passes, I don’t want to come here,” he expressed, highlighting the deep bond they share.
The emotional impact of this story resonates deeply as it underscores the lengths to which pet owners go to ensure the well-being of their companions. Koerner’s journey serves as a reminder of resilience and love amid tragedy.
As the community continues to recover from the wildfires, Koerner’s successful rebuild and the return to normalcy with Daisy Mae stand as a beacon of hope. Moving forward, he urges others affected by the fires to remain steadfast and look toward brighter days.
This touching story of survival and companionship is a testament to the indelible bond between humans and their pets. As Koerner reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the joy of being home again with his cherished dog, underscoring the importance of love and support in the face of adversity.
