North Shore Animal League America comes to the rescue after Hurricane Florence

Hurricane Florence brought disaster to the Carolinas and left citizens in a state of distress from the damage it caused. But there were some that couldn’t leave before the storm had hit: the animals.

 Hundreds of animals were left stranded either by their owners or were strays that were looking for shelter. Many of them have died from the extreme weather and danger that the hurricane caused. But for those that survived, they are left cold, hungry and in need of serious medical attention.

 Some of the local citizens were not happy that animals were left behind before the storm. “When you own a pet you should do what is necessary to keep them as safe and healthy as possible, and if you’re evacuating your home in the wake of a storm the animal should come with you,” said Jennifer Goldstein, a 20-year-old Hofstra student from Raleigh, North Carolina.

 But one animal shelter located on Long Island, New York, have been rescuing these animals and giving them the love that they need. The North Shore Animal League America has been working hard in saving these animals before and after Hurricane Florence.

Animal League America is a leader in the no-kill movement and are a completely non-profit animal shelter. According to Ted Moriates, a rescue associate, their operation “has saved over a hundred animals before and after the hurricane,” including dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.

 Some of these animals were ready for adoption the following weekend after rescue but others were in need of medical attention. Animal League America has a medical team that takes care of the rescued animals.

 Moriates confirmed that the medical state of the animals varied and at they had “very emaciated animals, a lot of them were infested with fleas so much that their hair was starting to fall out, and they developed skin conditions.” These animals are also treated for normal ailments such as hookworms and colds.

Once the animals have received medical attention they are ready to find their forever homes. For those who are looking to adopt they can stop by the shelters on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays to inquire about how to adopt.

Fostering is another option for those who want to support their cause. Animal League America  has a great fostering program that allows people to take animals into their homes until they find a forever home.

If you are unable to take an animal into your home there are always other ways to help. The shelter is always looking for donations whether monetary or in food, beds and blankets.

The shelter is also looking for local volunteers to help them out. “We couldn’t run it without our local volunteers. They are a huge asset in any kind of rescue,” Moriates said. Animal League America is still sending out rescue teams to save animals in need.

Those that are interested in volunteering, fostering or making a donation can visit www.animalleague.org.

Photo courtesy of North Shore Animal League America.