When a powerful winter storm swept across Long Island overnight Sunday, February 22, into Monday, February 23, it left an unforgettable mark on the region. By morning, more than two feet of snow had blanketed the area — the most intense local blizzard in almost a decade — transforming Port Washington into a landscape of towering drifts and buried streets. While much of the community hunkered down to ride out the storm, our Snow Emergency Team geared up for what was ahead, preparing cots to stay overnight at the shelter since the roads would be impassable.
As the blizzard intensified, our Snow Emergency Team was already hard at work, ensuring every dog, cat, puppy, and kitten in our care remained safe, warm, and loved.
The storm didn’t stop daily life for the animals. Dogs still needed their walks — even if those walks meant bundling up and heading out into deep snow and swirling flakes. For many of them, the blizzard turned the dog park into a winter playground. Rocky (V31557), one of our beloved older residents, seemed to rediscover his inner puppy as he bounded joyfully through the snow alongside the dedicated staff who stayed through several hazardous nights to care for him and his canine friends. Watching him leap through the drifts, you’d hardly guess his age — and if Rocky had his way, the snow would never melt!
Meanwhile, inside the shelter’s long-term feline care home, several of our resident cats had their own snowy adventure. Known for their famously curious personalities, they were treated to safe, supervised time in the catio as the snow fell softly outside. Fresh winter air, swirling flakes, and new scents created the perfect enrichment experience. After investigating the snowy scene — whiskers dusted and curiosity satisfied — they quickly hopped back inside, settling at the windows to continue their snow day surveillance from a warm, cozy perch.
While the blizzard tested the limits of roads, power lines, and patience across the region, our shelter team proved once again that compassion doesn’t take a snow day. From snowy walks and extra playtime to quiet overnight snuggles, our team ensured that every animal continued to receive the TLC they truly deserve.
“We are extremely proud of the work our staff do every day,” remarked Diane Johnson, Vice President of Shelter Operations. “However, when they choose to stay at work and are away from their families and their own pets during a storm to ensure the League’s pets are cared for, it goes well above and beyond! We want to thank them for their dedication, care, and time.”
For them, it wasn’t extraordinary — it was simply another day of lifesaving work. And thanks to their dedication, every wagging tail and curious whisker weathered the storm safely.