Posted: September 19, 2008 3 a.m. EDT
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| The ASPCA and other animal welfare organizations support relief efforts for animals affected by Hurricanes Ike and Gustav. |
In the aftermath of hurricanes Gustav and Ike, various animal welfare organizations in Louisiana and Texas are getting a financial boost. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals dispersed and pledged more than $75,000 in grant funding for disaster relief, in addition to sending a team of response experts to assist both states with animal rescues.
Various rotating teams of ASPCA and other agencies will deploy as needed throughout the field assessment and recovery period in the southeastern part of Texas. The American Humane Association’s Red Star Animal Emergency Services team reported that it’s helping pets that were found lying in the road, tethered for days, or wandering the streets.
Floodwaters in the area continue to be a threat to animals, according to American Humane. The animals received the necessary care because of donations that fund emergency relief efforts.
The ASPCA grants cover recovery costs, transportation as well as distribution of food and supplies. Following Hurricane Ike, the ASPCA pledged more than $25,000 in pre-assessment grants to the following groups:
- Animal Aid of Vermillion Parish in Louisiana, for recovery and supplies.
- Walter Ernst Foundation of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, for equine hay drops in southwest Louisiana.
- Habitat for Horses Inc. in Hitchcock, Texas, for emergency hay after destruction of a new barn and sheds, and for 60 horses on site and another 300 in foster care across several states.
- Hopeful Haven Equine Rescue Organization in Shreveport, La., for assistance with removal of hoof stock from flooded areas in Vermillion Parish, as well as hay.
In addition to the support after Ike, the ASPCA distributed $50,000 to the following agencies in response to Gustav, and provided staffing and equipment, to help animal welfare groups on the ground. Agencies receiving emergency grants following Hurricane Gustav included:
- Louisiana SPCA, New Orleans, for food and supplies provided for shelter animals as well as pets of evacuees in the surrounding community.
- Greater Birmingham Humane Society, Birmingham, Ala., for reimbursement and assistance with gathering and transporting supplies.
- Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Plaquemines Parish, La., for crates and supplies to relocate animals and restock.
- Animal Rescue New Orleans for recovery, and kennel and food distribution to lower parishes.
- Humane Society of Louisiana, New Orleans, for assistance and assessments throughout southeast Louisiana.
- Denham Springs Animal Shelter, Denham Springs, La., for recovery and kennel damage repair.
“Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our supporters, the ASPCA is able to offer grants and emergency funds to assist organizations affected by both Hurricanes Ike and Gustav,” said Ed Sayres, ASPCA president and CEO. “Over the years, these organizations have shown exceptional commitment and dedication to the animals in their care, and we are happy to be able to provide assistance during their time of need.”
Other agencies that are lending support include the Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Noah’s Wish, Society of Animal Welfare Administrators, United Animal Nations and numerous local and regional groups.