URGENT UPDATE: Ted Koerner has successfully rebuilt his home in Altadena, California, after it was devastated by the 2025 wildfires, driven by his deep bond with his golden retriever, Daisy Mae. Just announced, Koerner expedited the construction process to ensure he could spend precious time with Daisy Mae, whose health is declining.
This heartwarming yet urgent story unfolds as Koerner faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding his life after losing everything in the fires that claimed the lives of 31 people and destroyed thousands of homes. On December 11, 2025, Koerner and Daisy Mae were spotted enjoying their new backyard, under the shade of a historic 175-year-old Heritage Oak, a sight he feared would never return.
After evacuating with Daisy Mae as flames approached their street, Koerner found temporary refuge in a hotel alongside other fire victims. They walked together through the ash-covered landscape, sharing a bond that only deepened through adversity. “My biggest fear was losing Daisy Mae before I could get through this rebuilding process,” Koerner revealed.
In a race against time, Koerner liquidated most of his retirement savings to fund the reconstruction. He instructed contractors to prioritize speed, stating, “I need to get home with my dog before she passes.” This commitment to Daisy Mae fueled Koerner’s determination to rebuild as quickly as possible.
Construction took just over four months. Koerner vividly recalls the moment he brought Daisy Mae to the nearly completed home. “She walked right over to where the front door was supposed to be, went right in the house, and smiled as if to say, ‘OK, the house is still here,’” he said, reflecting on the emotional weight of that moment.
After enduring a year of uncertainty and loss, Koerner expressed overwhelming relief and joy at being back in his home. “I went into the house and cried a lot,” he shared. “It still has that effect. I’m actually home with my dog.”
This inspiring account highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the powerful bond between a man and his dog amid one of California’s most devastating wildfire seasons. As Koerner settles back into his rebuilt home, he hopes to create lasting memories with Daisy Mae in the years to come.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow stories of recovery and resilience in the wake of the 2025 wildfires.
