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Two Reindeer Escape Before Christmas

Incident Date:
12/13/2026
Location:
San Fernando, CA - USA
Facility Name:
Facility Type:
Exotic Pet (E)
Incident Category:
Escape of animal (EA)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Reindeer
Animal disposition:
Recaptured

Summary:

SAN FERNANDO, CA – Two reindeer that were seen running loose on the 5 Freeway in the San Fernando area over the weekend are safe and back with their owner.

The reindeer, named Cookie and Noel, escaped from their transport trailer early Saturday, Dec. 13, and were spotted walking along the southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway near the 118 Freeway. CHP said the reindeer had escaped from a transport trailer, prompting the party responsible for transporting them to return to the area to retrieve the animals.

In a Wednesday update, L.A. Animal Services said its officers also responded to the scene and, working alongside Caltrans crews and a good Samaritan, were able to successfully corral the reindeer.

Both animals were then transported to the West Valley Animal Services Center in Chatsworth, where they were examined and cared for before being released and reunited with their owner

Action take by Born Free USA:

Notes: