December 23, 2011
Happy Holidays from Kentucky!
The ASPCA Field Investigations and Response (FIR) Team is 100% committed to the animals we rescue—and that commitment doesn’t waver during the holiday season. This year, nine dedicated team members will be missingcelebrations with their loved ones to care for more than 100 rescued dogs in Rowan County, Kentucky.
For more than two months, the ASPCA team has beenon the ground caring for the small-breed dogs including Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Min Pins and Poodles who were rescued from horrifyingly filthy conditions. Thanks to the team’s hard work, the dogs continue to receive the care and comfort they need.
“This is just one of the many awful cases we respond to, and our main priority is always the welfare of the animals,” says Dick Green, ASPCA Director of Disaster Response. “Many of us will miss the holidays with our loved ones this year, but there is no doubt in any of our minds that this is where we belong. We owe these animals a second chance.”
The ASPCA would like to sincerely commend the following team members who elected to spend this holiday in Kentucky:
Dick Green
Bryan Hayes
Theresa Vargas
Dena Gayle Rosenberg
Tiffany Huggard-Lee
Shari Gordon
Jodi Jenkins
Sam Smith
Michelle Albin
To learn more about the Kentucky case, please visit our Raids and Investigations section.
December 23, 2011
Ed’s Corner: Remembering Miracles
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Ed Sayres, ASPCA President & CEO |
Given the festive time of year, I thought I would focus my year-end blog posts on happy endings. Some of the most touching stories arose from tragedy.
The ASPCA’s largest rescue effort this year was helping the animals left homeless following the tornadoes that devastated Joplin, Missouri. Several of our responders told me stories that I’ll never forget.
One of those involved a male setter mix dog who was quivering with fear in his kennel at the emergency shelter that had been set up for animals rescued following the tornadoes. One of the ASPCA’s responders built trust with the dog by patiently hand feeding him, until finally the dog allowed us to put a leash on him to take him for a walk.
Walking this terrified dog was challenging, as he pulled with all his might in the same direction. No matter which way the handler tried to direct him, the dog insisted on going in a single southward direction.
A few hours after the walk, a man was walking through the shelter trying to find his missing dog. When the man and the setter mix saw each other, the formerly-timid dog leapt up with excitement and started barking, howling and wagging his tail furiously. As I’m sure you’ve guessed, this man and this dog had belonged to each other before the tornadoes. The man pointed out where their home had been and, sure enough, that dog had been pulling his handler earlier in the day in the direction of where their home had been.
After the man and his beloved dog were reunited, we were hoping for similar joyous reunions. ASPCA responders talked frequently to an 18-year-old woman and her brother who visited the Joplin emergency shelter desperately trying to find the woman’s cat. Like countless others, this woman had lost almost everything she owned, but she clung to a dirty photo of her 16-year-old cat.
The cat the woman was desperately seeking was missing an ear and looked every one of his 16 years. Each time the woman visited the shelter and could not find her cat, she assumed the worst and broke down in tears. As the woman was leaving after one such heart-wrenching search, she saw a rescuer carrying a cat in a crate. She held up the picture of her beloved cat, and the rescuer said that he thought he had the cat. The woman looked in the crate, saw her cat, and collapsed on the ground while hugging the crate and crying along with her brother.
As news reports focus on must-have holiday gifts, I can’t help but think about the people who lost all their material possessions, yet felt so blessed to have found their beloved companions. Happy holidays, everyone!
November 7, 2011
Breaking Update: ASPCA Transporting 100+ Puppy Mill Victims to Safety
ASPCA Field Investigations and Response Team members are removing more than 100 dogs from the squalid Arkansas puppy mill they raided this morning. Using the ASPCA’s custom animal transport vehicles, the team is moving the canines to a temporary shelter, where they’ll receive badly needed veterinary attention and perhaps the first human kindness of their lives.
The terrified dogs endured profoundly inhumane conditions at the mill. ASPCA responders found them to be suffering from severe neglect, skin conditions and flea infestation.
“The ASPCA is pleased to be in a position to lend our assistance and help the Garland County Sheriff’s Office put an end to puppy mills in their community,” says Kathryn Destreza, Director of Investigations for the ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response Team. “Puppy mill dogs suffer from living in extremely unsanitary conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and socialization, and we appreciate the efforts of the local authorities in pursuing this investigation.”
At the shelter, a full team of veterinary professionals is prepared to triage the dogs, immediately tending to any urgent medical needs, then evaluating and providing a treatment plan for each canine. The dogs will then settle in to their new lodgings to begin recovering from the cruelty they have endured.
Because they are part of a criminal case, the dogs will not immediately be made available for adoption.
Watch ASPCA.org for more information about this case, or register to receive the latest news in your inbox. To find out how you can help save dogs from puppy mills, visit www.nopetstorepuppies.com.
November 7, 2011
Breaking Update: ASPCA Rescuing Hundreds of Dogs from AR Puppy Mill
ASPCA Field Investigations and Response Team members are in the process of rescuing more than 100 dogs from an Arkansas puppy mill where a search warrant was executed earlier today. ASPCA response team members and veterinary staff are working to evaluate the pups and ready them for transport to a temporary shelter.
FIR Medical Director Dr. Rhonda Windham and her forensics team are also at the site, working to document the condition of the dogs to help law enforcement build a criminal case against the mill’s owner, Pam Thomas. Thomas has been arrested and charged with three counts of felony animal cruelty.
During the raid earlier today, the team found more than 100 frightened and unhealthy dogs living in profoundly inhumane conditions at the mill, suffering from severe neglect and various diseases.
“Our goal is to help the local authorities by providing experts and resources to support the case, and see that these animals move on to a better place,” says ASPCA Director of Investigations Kathryn Destreza, who is leading the operation for the ASPCA.
We’ll have more on this developing story soon—stay tuned to the ASPCA blog.
November 7, 2011
Breaking News: ASPCA Raiding Large Arkansas Puppy Mill Right Now
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Puppy mill dogs, like this one in Holly Springs, MO, often suffer from skin diseases and other conditions caused by serious neglect. |
The ASPCA Field Investigations and Response Team is in Hot Springs, Arkansas, today, rescuing more than 100 small dogs—including Dachshunds, West Highland white terriers, Boston terriers and Chihuahuas—from a puppy mill. Our responders, led by ASPCA Director of Investigations Kathryn Destreza, are acting at the behest of the Garland County Sheriff’s Department and are working with the International Fund for Animal Welfare, PetSmart Charities, Inc., and the Garland County Humane Society.
Watch the ASPCA blog for more information on this developing case.
October 19, 2011
ASPCA Provides Critical Transport Following Kentucky Puppy Mill Raid
The ASPCA, along with our Shelter Response Partnership network, is currently transporting 27 dogs from the Rowan County Humane Society in Morehead, Kentucky, to the Capital Area Humane Society in Columbus, Ohio, and St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in Madison, New Jersey. The move will help make room for 118 dogs recently seized during a puppy mill investigation led by the Rowan County Attorney’s Office in Morehead.
The ASPCA’s Shelter Response Partnership network is a coalition of national and local agencies that provide a second chance for animals rescued from overcrowded facilities and cruelty investigations.
“To help communities with limited resources, the ASPCA works collaboratively with its response partners on cases where shelter animals need to be relocated,” says Joel Lopez, Senior Manager of Operations for the ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response Team.
The transported animals will be placed up for adoption.
With your help, the ASPCA remains at the forefront of ending the cruelties associated with puppy mills. To learn more about the Rowan County puppy mill investigation, please visit our earlier post.
October 12, 2011
Breaking: ASPCA Assists in Investigation of Kentucky Puppy Mill
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A puppy mill survivor. |
We’re at it again! The ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response Team is on the ground in Kentucky assisting in the evidence collection, sheltering and placement of 118 dogs seized last Thursday during a puppy mill investigation. The dogs—mainly small breeds such as Papillons, Dachshunds and Poodles—were living in deplorable conditions on the property.
In puppy mills across the country, breeder dogs like those rescued in Kentucky often suffer with little to no medical care, inadequate food and no break from misery. They are treated as puppy‐making machines. And when they can no longer breed, they are simply discarded.
"Simply put, these dogs are considered a cash crop—the more puppies they can crank out, the more money the mills can make,” says Cori Menkin ASPCA Senior Director, Puppy Mills Campaign. “When the dogs can no longer produce, they are deemed worthless, just like broken equipment."
With your help, the ASPCA remains at the forefront of ending the cruelties associated with puppy mills. Stay tuned to aspca.org for more information as this story develops.
September 22, 2011
Happily Ever After: Cinderella’s Journey Home
Fairytales do come true. In June, 2010 ASPCA responders deployed to rural Tennessee, to assist with a critical hoarding intervention. The scene was heartbreaking. More than 80 dogs were found living among trash and debris. Some were housed in overcrowded pens and some were chained to posts, while others roamed the property. One dog stood alone.
Emaciated, pregnant and suffering from severe mange, her spirit was clearly broken. Never had a dog looked so sad. But that all changed the day we arrived. Our team provided the emergency care and love she needed.
Having gone from rags to riches, we named her Cinderella. It didn't take long for a family to fall in love with this little survivor, and Cinderella found a home. But it wasn't until a trip to a local dog park that this fairytale came full circle…
One afternoon, Cinderella, who usually stayed close to her family, began playing with another dog named Mufasa. In fact, they were inseparable. Then it happened. Cinderella's guardian suddenly recalled seeing Mufasa at the ASPCA Adoption Center. He was one of the dogs rescued in Tennessee with Cinderella!
In a very big city, these two had found each other. And the moment was magical. To this day, they remain the best of friends. After surviving the unthinkable, they were given a second chance. Others are not so lucky—countless others are still waiting to be rescued. Learn how you can help!
September 1, 2011
ASPCA Provides Critical Water Rescue for Pets Stranded by Irene
After a state of emergency was declared in the area, the ASPCA deployed to Schoharie County, New York, to assist with the emergency rescue and sheltering of animals stranded by severe flooding. Small towns are engulfed by water, and roads and bridges have been closed across the county.
“We’re providing emergency water rescues for pets trapped inside flooded homes,” says Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response. “People can’t get home; the damage caused by Tropical Storm Irene is just devastating.”
Rescued animals will be taken to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley where they will be triaged and housed until they can be reunited with their families. PetSmart Charities has supplied much-needed provisions such as crates, blankets and bowls.
“We’re committed to helping families and pets impacted by Tropical Storm Irene,” says Rickey. “We’ll be here for as long as they need us.”
Schoharie County residents looking to rescue or shelter their pets or wishing to report lost pets should contact Animal Services at the Schoharie County Emergency Operations Center at (518) 231-2718.
Stay tuned to ASPCA.org for more on this breaking story.
August 18, 2011
More Than 500 Pets Affected by Floods in ND—ASPCA Deploys!
The damage is overwhelming. Since June, severe flooding has devastated North Dakota's fourth-largest city, Minot, wiping out thousands of buildings and leaving countless families homeless.
Yesterday, members of the NARSC (National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition), including the ASPCA arrived in Minot to help to care for more than 500 companion animals displaced by the floods.
Working at the request of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and the Souris Valley Animal Shelter, the team is providing emergency sheltering for animals—mostly cats and dogs—at a pet evacuation center located at the NDSU Research Center.
“It has been a long haul for the people of Minot,” says Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of the ASPCA’s Field Investigations and Response Team. “We are proud to be able to offer support through the coalition as this community recovers.”
Please stay tuned for more information on the ASPCA's relief efforts in Minot. Sign up now to receive our breaking newsletter every Friday morning.
July 21, 2011
ASPCA Finds Placement for 296 Neglected NY Animals
On Sunday, ASPCA responders headed to Gloversville, New York, to assist 296 neglected dogs, cats, birds and farm animals—including goats and horses—housed in an overcrowded sanctuary called Kelly’s Haven for Friends Animal Rescue.
At the request of Fulton County authorities, ASPCA Northeast Director of Field Investigations and Response Jeff Eyre and his team helped collect evidence for criminal charges while ASPCA veterinary professionals provided the surrendered animals with emergency care.
What’s the Next Step?
Helping these animals get a second chance at forever homes.
“Once we assessed all the animals, we contacted our shelter response partners to quickly find placement for them,” Eyre says, adding that many organizations immediately stepped up to the plate to “help a community with severely limited resources.”
Arriving at a Shelter Near You?
Some of the rescued animals will be placed in Gloversville’s surrounding area, but others will be hitting the road to various ports of call around the Northeast and Midwest, where rescue groups are waiting with open arms. Here are some of the stops the transport vehicle is making:
- Mohawk and Hudson River Humane Society (Menands, New York)
- New Rochelle Humane Society (New Rochelle, New York)
- Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association (Ledgewood, New Jersey)
- Washington Animal Rescue League (Washington, D.C.)
- Finger Lakes SPCA (Bath, New York)
- Allen County SPCA (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
- Central Vermont Humane Society (East Montpelier, Vermont)
- Conway Humane Society (Conway, New Hampshire)
- Animal Rescue League (Bedford, New Hampshire)
- Monadnock Humane Society (Swanzey, New Hampshire)
To learn more about the Gloversville transport, visit the ASPCA Pressroom.
June 9, 2011
ASPCA Launches $500K Disaster Grant Fund
Thank you! With your support our grants team was just able to launch the ASPCA Disaster Fund to help shelters and other animal welfare groups affected by or responding to the recent storms.
“After our Field Investigations and Response Team witnessed firsthand the incredible devastation, we wanted to offer additional aid,” says ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “The ASPCA Disaster Fund will provide critical resources to help these local groups protect and care for animals in their communities.”
Thank You, Rachael Ray!
As part of the relief effort, TV personality Rachael Ray, with her dog food line Nutrish and her philanthropic initiative Rachael’s Rescue, has pledged her support with a really generous contribution of both funds and pet food.
“I am a huge lover of animals, and I simply can’t bear the thought of them homeless, hungry and in need of care,” says Rachael Ray. “One of the main factories where our Nutrish Just 6 treats are manufactured is located in Joplin, so this tragedy has really hit home and we knew we needed to spring into action and help. I’m so happy I could join the incredible efforts already underway by the ASPCA in helping families find their pets and care for animals in their community—we started Nutrish and Rachael’s Rescue for this very purpose.”
Take Action!
If your local shelter is in need of emergency funding, learn more about applying for an ASPCA Disaster Fund grant today. Want to help? The ASPCA relies on the continued support of our members to provide these vital services. Please text PLEDGE to 25383 to donate $10 to our disaster relief efforts!
June 8, 2011
ASPCA Forensics Team Assists in Seizure of nearly 700 Neglected Cats!
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Julie Busch Branaman/The HSUS
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We’re at it again! The ASPCA Forensics Team is currently on the ground in Alachua County, Florida collecting forensic evidence of nearly 700 cats found living in deplorable conditions at the Haven Acres Cat ‘Sanctuary’. The animals were rescued as the result of an ongoing investigation led by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Alachua County Animal Services.
Found living in filthy wire pens throughout the eight-acre property, responders say many of the cats are underweight and appear to be suffering from upper respiratory infections and parasites. The animals are being transferred to an emergency shelter where they will be examined by veterinarians and receive critical medical care.
Evidence Collection
The ASPCA Forensics Team is playing a vital role in the criminal investigation—mapping the cats’ locations, assisting veterinarians in documenting wounds and overall body conditions, and removing deceased cats for necropsies. Also on scene is the ASPCA’s fully equipped Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit, outfitted with state-of-the-art forensics tools.
“This is the kind of thing that local animal organizations dread getting involved in, because we just don't have the resources, says David R. Flagler, Director of Alachua County Animal Services. “But when we work with national organizations like the ASPCA, you make it a lot easier."
The HSUS and United Animal Nations will continue to provide ongoing care for the animals until their custody is decided in an upcoming disposition hearing.
From shutting down puppy mills to responding to natural disasters—the ASPCA is on the ground fighting cruelty every day. Check out some of our recent deployments!
June 7, 2011
From the Rubble—One Cat’s Journey Home
Every single day people arrive to view the hundreds of rescued and displaced animals being cared for at the ASPCA Emergency Shelter in Joplin, Missouri. For nearly 400 families—many of whom lost everything in the May 22 tornado—those visits have led to heartfelt reunions. But for others, it takes hope and a little patience.
With animals being rescued each day, many families return regularly in hopes of finding their beloved pets. One such family was the Freys. The Freys suffered broken bones and bruised spirits, but survived the tornado that demolished their home. But as the dust settled, their cat, Baby Girl, was nowhere to be found.
Reunion
Meanwhile, ASPCA responders began a program to rescue animals in the tornado zone at night. A few nights in, our team found a large calico cat with a sweet face. The next afternoon, as usual, the Freys visited the shelter.
“I saw her and it was instant—I knew it was her,” says Mrs. Frey.
Baby Girl is going home just as the Freys move into their new house. “We’re just so happy to have her back," Mrs. Frey tells. "Without you guys, we would not have known where to even start looking for her—thank you for taking care of our baby."
Learn more about our efforts in Joplin. And please help us continue to support the animal victims of Joplin. Text PLEDGE to 25383 to donate $10 today!
June 2, 2011
ASPCA Awards $100,000 Grant to Joplin Humane Society
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| This kitten was rescued in Joplin |
In the wake of the devastating storm that demolished much of the community of Joplin, the ASPCA has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Joplin Humane Society to support its disaster relief and recovery efforts. The grant was presented in memory of Joplin Humane Society Executive Director Karen Aquino’s step-daughter, Rachel Markham, who perished in the disaster.
“Our thoughts are with Karen and all the people of Joplin who lost loved ones to this tragedy,” says Joplin native Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response. “The Joplin Humane Society is doing amazing work helping animals affected by the disaster, and we wanted to further support the organization with this grant.
ASPCA on the Ground in Joplin
On May 23, the ASPCA deployed to Missouri to lead emergency sheltering efforts of animals displaced by the tornado. Working closely with the Joplin Humane Society, nearly 850 animals have since been rescued—with more than 200 beloved pets being reunited with their families.
“My husband and I are humbled and touched by this gesture,” adds Aquino. “We are grateful to work with the ASPCA in our efforts to reunite pets with their families and help make them whole again.”
Please help us continue to support the animal victims of Joplin. Text PLEDGE to 25383 to donate $10 today!
May 26, 2011
Joplin Update: Reunions Begin as Support Pours In
As Joplin copes with the aftermath of the most lethal single tornado on record, the ASPCA’s emergency response team continues to work tirelessly to rescue and shelter affected animals. More than 350 animals have been brought—most by their families—to the temporary shelter we’re operating in conjunction with the Joplin Humane Society.
Things are starting to look brighter for these animals. By Thursday morning, more than 60 had been reunited with their families! On Wednesday, even as the threat of more severe weather loomed, 20 pets went home in just one hour. Says ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response Tim Rickey, a Joplin native: “It was a wonderful day.”
Our work is not yet done, and none of it would be possible without generous donations from our members, supply providers like PetSmart Charities and other in-state groups, and countless compassionate volunteers. On Wednesday alone, 150 volunteers arrived at our shelter to help, and we put them to work right away. And shelters around Missouri continue to accept adoptable animals from Joplin.
Says Rickey, “The outpouring of support from the community, the state and elsewhere has been exceptional.”
Please help us support the animal victims of recent disasters in the South and Midwest. Text PLEDGE to 25383 to donate $10 today!
May 24, 2011
ASPCA Mounts Temporary Shelter in Devastated Joplin
The ASPCA Field Investigations and Response (FIR) Team is in Joplin, Missouri, following a lethal tornado that devastated the area last weekend. The deployment is especially meaningful for ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response Tim Rickey, who is himself a native of Joplin.
“The destruction caused by the tornado is indescribable, and our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected by this disaster—pets and people alike,” says Rickey, who began disaster relief work in Joplin the day after the tornado.
At the request of the Joplin Humane Society, we’re heading up emergency sheltering operations and assisting the Humane Society of Missouri with field rescues. On Monday, Rickey helped the city establish a temporary shelter for family pets near the Joplin Humane Society.
“We hope to alleviate the stress for pet parents by temporarily caring for their animals,” says Rickey.
PetSmart Charities is assisting in this effort, providing two Emergency Relief Waggin' vehicles filled with sheltering supplies like crates, blankets and bowls.
The ASPCA has also coordinated the transport of nearly 150 animals from the Joplin Humane Society to Wayside Waifs in Kansas City, Missouri, and the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri in Springfield. This move will allow Joplin Humane to accept more animals affected by the tornado.
“We’re ensuring that existing shelter animals are out of harm’s way,” says Rickey, adding that many of the dogs and cats rescued so far are suffering from lacerations, broken bones and eye injuries that appear to have been caused by the storm.
Adds Rickey: “The ASPCA will provide ongoing assistance, personnel and resources in Joplin as long as we’re needed.”
Please help us support the animal victims of recent disasters in the South and Midwest. Text PLEDGE to 25383 to donate $10 today!
May 18, 2011
ASPCA Assists AL with Grants, Supplies and Boots on the Ground
As the South and Midwest have struggled to cope with severe weather and the devastation it leaves in its wake, we’ve been keeping you informed about where we’re deployed and how we’re helping animals across the regions.
But, some of you have rightly asked, what are we doing to help Alabama’s animals as the state recovers from the worst tornado outbreak in U.S. history?
Here are a few highlights of our work for Alabama’s animals.
Grants
One ASPCA grant awarded in Alabama went to the state’s largest animal welfare organization. After receiving the $128,000 grant, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) was able to obtain an adoption and transport rig so it can better assist the state.
The rig will help GBHS head to other parts of Alabama—including hard-hit Tuscaloosa—to provide disaster relief. It will include space for animal transport cages, an on-board veterinary work space and room for the storage of pet care supplies.
“This rig will help us reach even more animals in need as we work to help the pets who have been affected by these devastating storms,” says GBHS Strategic Communications Officer Laura Golden.
Sheltering
Collaborating with our partnership network, the ASPCA has helped bring staff to Alabama’s overburdened shelter. In Tuscaloosa, the Saranac Technical Rescue Team has five responders at Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter, and the Washington Animal Rescue League (WARL) has also sent a team.
In addition to assisting with shelter management and daily care, WARL has taken animals back to Washington, D.C., for adoption, lessening the burden on Tuscaloosa.
Supplies
From our innovative distribution center located in Memphis, we supplied Alabama with pet food, crates, carriers, large fans, litter boxes and more. ASPCA volunteers and partners drove trucks to the state and unloaded supplies quickly, helping shelters in Alabama care for their animals in the aftermath of the tornadoes.
Stay tuned to ASPCA.org for more news on how we’re responding to this crisis in Alabama and elsewhere.
May 16, 2011
Animal Flood Victims Need Your Help!
The devastation is heartbreaking. Homes have been reduced to rubble, streets transformed into flowing rivers, hundreds have lost their lives—and it’s far from over.
"We see entire communities flooded—animals are stranded on dog houses, in trees and other small patches of dry space," says Tim Rickey, ASPCA Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response. "For many of these victims, rescue is their only hope."
As emergency responders work to help countless families evacuated from their homes due to severe storms, teams of ASPCA responders have been deployed to Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee to rescue and care for animals who have been displaced, stranded and even abandoned.
“Our team is specially trained in water rescue and emergency sheltering for animals in crisis,” says Rickey. “We are doing everything we can to help, and hope families find comfort in knowing their pets are safe.”
Take Action!
To date, the ASPCA has assisted nearly 4,000 animals in these affected areas—but we can’t do it alone. Please help us make sure that no animal is left behind.
Learn how you can help today.
May 3, 2011
Update: ASPCA Assisting Hundreds of Animal Disaster Victims
Last week we told you that the ASPCA Field Investigations and Response (FIR) Team deployed to locations in the South and Midwest to rescue and shelter animals affected by the tornadoes and flooding in the region. Here’s the latest on what our teams are doing, and how they’re preparing to accomplish as much as possible in the coming weeks.
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Pemiscot County, Missouri: ASPCA Midwest Director of Field Investigations and Response Kyle Held is heading up a sheltering mission in conjunction with the Caruthersville Humane Society. More than 80 animals, including a goat, are receiving care under this mission, and more are expected to arrive as flooding continues. Many animals have been removed from the area with the help of our shelter partners. At least 19 animals were rescued over the weekend, and more rescue missions are planned.
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Faulkner County, Arkansas: A team led by ASPCA Shelter Operations Manager Bonnie Dean is assisting with sheltering and conducting field assessments in Arkansas. The team canvassed a large area and handed out pet food to local residents, and roughly 100 dogs, 12 horses and three kittens are being sheltered in a rodeo arena.
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Shelby County, Tennessee: As the Mississippi River rises, evacuations in this area have increased. Led by ASPCA Southeast Direct of Field Investigations and Response Kathryn Destreza, the team here has been helping local organizations develop a plan for an emergency shelter in preparation for evacuation. Another team, along with PetSmart Charities (PMC), spent the weekend setting up a distribution center point in Shelby County. Three PMC trailers arrived loaded with food, sheltering supplies, 25,000 square feet of chain length fencing and crates for 2,300 animals.
“The ASPCA is extremely grateful for the collaboration between national and local agencies that combined efforts to help animals in need,” says Tim Rickey, senior director of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “The ASPCA and our partners, including Memphis Animal Services, the Humane Society of Memphis, PetSmart Charities, Code 3 Associates, American Humane Association, the International Fund for Animal Welfare and the Humane Society of the United States, are committed to a collaborative effort to help pet parents and animals impacted by the recent chain of natural disasters. We will continue to do everything we can to help these communities as long as we’re needed.”
Stay tuned to ASPCA.org for more breaking news from the field.