One of the most destructive storms in Florida’s history, Hurricane Ian has left residents struggling in its wake. As always in times of crisis, North Shore Animal League America mobilized quickly to help, bringing people together and forging new bonds in the process.
Answering the call for donations of emergency supplies, our supporters and friends in Long Island and the tristate area succeeded in filling our Mobile Rescue Unit with critically needed items such as food, water, and pet and household necessities. Animal League America volunteer Catherine Klyde, now retired from law enforcement, joined the team on their trip to Florida, and was able to bring her experience in emergency situations and love for animals to the benefit of our mission. “When I was asked to join the transport, my heart was pounding,” Catherine recalled. “I knew it was the chance of a lifetime. I was so excited to see the beginning of our animals’ journey here.” It truly is the passion and dedication of everyone in our organization that makes our lifesaving work possible.
The first stop was our longtime partner Clearwater-based Pinellas County Animal Services, who served as a distribution hub and helped deliver the relief supplies to multiple animal shelters impacted by the storm. Upon their arrival, Animal League America Rescue Team Leader Ted Moriates was in for a surprise. His uncle Raymond Reicherter, a resident of Clearwater, had jumped in his car and come to help. “We pulled up to the front gate of the shelter and my aunt and uncle were standing there waving,” Ted told us. “He assisted in unloading everything which was so kind.”
With the supplies unloaded, the team was able to take in animals to bring back to our Long Island campus. Ted wants to remind people that “all the animals we had on our truck were residents of the shelter and not ‘owned’ animals. The dogs and cats we brought with us made space so that if people in Florida need to take their pets somewhere while they get on their feet, there is a place to go.” In fact, Animal League America pioneered the nation’s first humane relocation program, and that has been a crucial part of our emergency rescue efforts since Hurricane Andrew.
The next destination for our Emergency Rescue Team was Bronson, FL to connect with a new shelter partner. “Love My Pittie Rescue reached out because they were in desperate need of help,” said Sylvia Ottaka, Animal League America Senior Director of Rescue. “The organization works with animal control and rescue for two counties, and they have a sanctuary as well. Due to the storm, they have taken in more canines than usual. They have all types of wonderful dogs, and we look forward to partnering with them in the future.”
In all, 26 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens made their way to our Port Washington campus, including an endearing mamma Pittie and her litter of pups who will soon be ready for their new home. Animal rescue takes teamwork, and at North Shore Animal League America people pull together during times of adversity, and every day, to protect animals in need.