In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, a major crisis involving affected pets is looming. There is tremendous need for resources and money in the Carolinas as countless rescue groups and humane organizations struggle to rescue pets in an unfolding disaster that will linger well beyond the recession of floodwaters.
Numerous news accounts indicate a growing fear that resources will outmatch need and countless animals – once loving family companions – will be euthanized. The rescue stories are striking and photos on the web are inspiring, including a local television reporter who stopped his live stream to rescue a dog.
Rescued pets are available for adoption
While the need to conduct more rescues grows with every minute, pets fortunate enough to have been pulled from the rising waters are arriving at eastern shelters.
In our hometown of Atlanta where the Atlanta Humane Society has received a delivery of rescued cats, a gracious donor is doubling online donations. A list of cats ready for adoption can be found on their website.
The Human Society of Treasure Coast in Florida is currently waiving adoption fees in an “Emergency Adoption Special.” The society accepted 48 animals that were evacuated from a shelter in South Carolina.
More animals are arriving in Tennessee and Pittsburgh.
How you can help
The need in North Carolina and South Carolina cannot be understated. While this is a partial list, what follows are ways you can help save more animals trapped by Hurricane Florence.
- South Carolina’s Charleston Animal Society is accepting donations to cover expenses. They are requesting donations to cover food, leashes, pet carriers, waste bags, litter and litter boxes.
- The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has also deployed a disaster response team to affected areas. They are accepting donations on their website to help with disaster relief. The society told local news outlets in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, that its volunteers were working around the clock to prepare boats, supplies, and disaster-relief trailers so first-responders can help get animals to safety.
- The Best Friends Animal Society is also working hard on rescues and accepting donations to help impacted pets.
Sound overwhelming? The need is overwhelming.
If you’re not sure how to help, begin my adding to your life the most joy and love you could ever ask for – adopt a pet and help make room for those still being rescued.