Last week large, powerful tornadoes swept through the southeastern region of the U.S., leaving behind massive destruction, untold numbers of injuries and hundreds dead. April 27, 2011 was the deadliest day from tornadoes since March 18, 1925. From wildlife to livestock to pets, animals were not spared either. Of those that survived, many are homeless, wandering, injured or lost.
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| Photo credit: Birmingham News/Jeff Roberts |
The needs are now great; with so much focus still on recovering missing people, helping the injured, newly-homeless or grieving, there is little left for other living beings. Much of the region affected by the tornadoes in the South has already endured Hurricane Katrina, compounding the loss and misery.
The immense devastation of homes and buildings has left little alternatives for housing animals. Makeshift shelters, rescue groups and volunteers, donated supplies to feed and care for the animals, and volunteered veterinary services are currently the mainstay of helping these homeless and injured animals. People have lost their pets or are unable to care for them now, others are finding these pets, and still others are fostering until their families can be found.
Feel at a loss on how to help? Share these sites through your Facebook, Twitter and E-mail :
For local residents, these links are helpful resources for either locating their lost pets or for learning how to offer assistance. Lost or Found pets can be posted. For people elsewhere, these sites offer various ways to help. Donations and needed supplies, rescue organizations to accept transports out of the area and professional services are critical.
Greater Birmingham Humane Society offers listing of lost pets, and is providing services on the ground as well as temporary fostering for the pets of people in shelters. Global Animals Foundation is collecting donations on behalf of vetted rescues working in the affected areas. In addition, the ASPCA is now also in a few areas, providing support for transport and temporary sheltering.
By spreading awareness of how people can help or get help, we are providing valuable resources and connecting a network to aid the animals who have become victims of these tragic tornadoes in the South.
Just one story of so many…
Just one story of so many…
Additionally, there is no better time than now to consider your own pets. Disasters can occur anywhere, and in many forms. Ensure you are prepared for an emergency:
Disaster Preparedness for Pets;
Disaster Preparedness for Pets;
It’s so sad what has happened. So glad those dogs were okay. I have been spreading the word and will continue to do so. Thanks for sharing this post!
Cairn cuddles, Oz
It makes me sad to think of the homeless pets or ones who have become separated. Thanks for this helpful info, I’ll help spread the word.
this is beyond heartbreaking…I am helping spread the word as well!
Makes me sad, too – and feeling so helpless to help. Thanks for sharing, and spreading the word!