Iowa Flood Pet Rescue
Tuesday June 17, 2008
The Iowa flood continues to make the news with a continuing focus on pet rescue. Animal rescue units from the Humane Society of Missouri, the HSUS, and supplies donated byPetSmart Charities, all were enroute within days of the story breaking. "The Iowa City Animal Care & Adoption Center has evacuated their building and relocated to the Johnson County 4-H Fairgrounds," according to the KCRG TV News.
Local firefighters pulled extra duty, helping to rescue stranded people and their pets.
Cedar Rapids firefighter Jason Lopez holds a cat rescued from the attic of a flooded home June 13, 2008 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.Photo Credit: © Getty Images/ Scott Olson
The HSUS has published a slideshow on its site showing photos of some of the pets being rescued. Donations are requested, both by the HSUS and the local Friends of the Animals Center Foundation.
This story has been a sad and poignant reminder of the importance of Preparing Your Cats for Disaster.
Comments
I’m sort of embarrased to admit this, but can cats swim?
Hi J Girl,
Yes, I believe most cats can swim, however with the exception of a couple of breeds, most avoid physical contact with water. In any case, given the wide range of flooding, it is unlikely any cat would be able to make it safely to dry land on its own.
Are local authorities taking in all the rescued animals or are some being euthanized like they were in New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina?
ALL, My friend Mike is on the police dive recovery unit in Des Moine (spelling
) and he informed me that they have had to euthanize some animals as a result of exposure and maxed out rescue centers. The feral pets are a danger to themselves and the community. Very tense situation indeed.