A Boston-area nonprofit is taking in dozens of dogs and cats from Tennessee, Florida and North Carolina following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA-Angell) also sent staff to shelters in the hardest-hit areas.
“Given all the issues they are dealing with, we want to help in any way possible,” MSPCA-Angell Vice President of Animal Care Mike Keiley said in a news release.
According to Keiley, MSPCA-Angell is finalizing plans to transport up to 80 dogs and cats from Brother Wolf Animal Rescue in Asheville, North Carolina.
“Brother Wolf's facility and all of their vehicles were destroyed,” Kelly said. “Fortunately, they were able to get the animals into foster homes, but now the animals need to be moved to find their forever homes and we are so grateful to be able to help.”
He added that he hoped to receive all the animals by Saturday at the latest.
“We're ready to take in as many animals as we can as soon as they can get here,” he said.
Kelly said 15 dogs, including several puppies, arrived at the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem on Tuesday from the Humane Society of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the McKamey Animal Center, along with nearly 20 other dogs. It arrived from a Tennessee shelter last weekend.
“Our partners there are dealing with a lot of flooding and they're anticipating an influx of surrenders and displaced animals from the hurricane,” Kelly said. “The transportation of these dogs, which were living in shelters before the storm, will allow these groups to help more local animals affected by the storm.”
In Florida, Pasco County Animal Services is also in dire need because it has no power and overcapacity, Kelly said. He said it's “impossible” for them to safely transport the animals locally, so MSPCA-Angell staff are helping transport about 15 cats.
“Our staff will provide a little relief to workers who are in desperate need, while transportation will free up much-needed space at the shelter,” he said, adding that the cats will be available for adoption after 48 hours of quarantine and admission. Any medical attention that may be needed.
The influx of cats comes as the MSPCA-Angell hosts “Purranormal Cativity,” an adoption event themed in the spirit of Halloween. It includes black cats, cats with specific medical or behavioral needs, and geriatric cats.
“This week we will be hosting a free adoption marathon for some of the cats in our care in hopes that we can make more room for the animals that need a place to go because of the hurricane,” Kelly said. “In order for us to be successful, we need the community's support Support. If you have space in your home and heart, we hope you will adopt or foster some of the animals in our care.
Beyond that, he urged others to consider donating.
“However, if now is not the time, we can always use financial support to help make these transports possible and take care of all newcomers,” he said.
The National Desk content is provided by Sinclair, the parent company of FOX45 News.
Originally published:
