Animal Advocate, Shelter Volunteer Amber Houck Dies; She Battled Cancer

Amber Houck, an advocate for abandoned pets and a volunteer at Redlands Animal Shelter, has died after a battle with cancer, Redlands Friends of Shelter Animals announced.

"Amber Houck, our amazing animal rescuer, passed away this morning after her battle with cancer," the group said in a statement Monday. "She did so much for Redlands Animal Shelter. She saved so many and was loved by everyone. . . .

"Rest in Peace Amber ♥ Take care of all of the fur babies that have gone to Rainbow Bridge. You are their angel now ♥"

Houck was honored by the Redlands Animal Shelter for her volunteer efforts in July 2011, when she was named the shelter's first-ever Volunteer of the Month.

"Amber has been volunteering at the shelter for a little over a year," shelter officials said. "She spends 20 hours a week at the shelter, plus 10 hours working on promotional materials like posters, and additional time emailing, networking with rescues and adopters, and transporting animals."

Houck attended Redlands High School and Cal State San Bernardino. She is survived by her husband Gary Houck. Funeral arrangements were pending.