In a poignant message posted on social media Tuesday from the Asheville Humane Society, staff and volunteers wrote how sincerely grateful everyone involved has been for the community’s help with the animals.
The Bissell Pet Foundation, alongside the Forsyth Humane Society, helped to load more than 100 animals into a plane to fly them to safety. As staff and volunteers stood on the tarmac, waving goodbye to the animals they love and support, they were encouraged and filled with gratitude knowing that the animals were safe.
“This is our bright spot. This is our happiness” Jen, our Director of Operations said. “We love our animals enough to let them go, because their happiness is our purpose.”
Even though the Asheville Humane Society facilities were not damaged by the storm, the lack of potable water made it impossible to care for the large number of pets. The Asheville Humane Society is the only open-intake animal shelter in Buncombe County. Since 1984, they have dedicated themselves to ensuring every animal has the quality of life they deserve.
Besides providing fresh and safe drinking water for the animals, water is also needed to clean kennels and wash the hands of all involved in the day to day operation for both grooming and medical procedures.
The BISSELL Pet Foundation delivered more than a 1,000 pounds of food and supplies provided for animals and staff. The plane delivering the supplies was then reloaded with carriers full of 57 cats, 40 dogs and all of AHS’s “pocket animals.” The animals have been taken to the Forsyth Humane Society to be distributed to safe shelters.
At this time the shelter is unable to accept any animals, but people are urged if they find a stray or homeless pet, please provide food and water and reach out to community resources for help.
1. How can I help?
Monetary Donations – we are facing unprecedented challenges. Your donation helps us care for these animals, even in the most difficult circumstances. You can donate at our link in bio or by following this link: https://tinyurl.com/AshevilleHumaneDonate
Gas! Gas allows us to transport our animals to safety, ensure our caretakers can make it to the shelter, and launch our outreach team into the community. You can bring gas to 14 Forever Friend Lane in exchange for LOTS of gratitude.
2. Do you need fosters?
Currently we cannot accept new fosters. If you have fostered with us in the past we would love to hear from you! If you are looking to support amazing organizations through fostering, we encourage you to contact Madison County Animal Shelter, Brother Wolf, and other shelters in your area to find out their needs.
3. Where can I find dog/cat food?
Many of the local food distribution centers including the official FEMA Shelters are passing out animal food in addition to supplies for people. Several pet stores are opening on a limited basis to provide the opportunity for pet owners to access the resources they need (please find resources in the document below.)
4. Do you need volunteers?
This is tricky. Sometimes – yes, desperately. Other times it’s “hurry up and wait.” If there is a specific need for volunteers we will broadcast it here and accept your support! You can also join our volunteer facebook group for the latest updates on our needs: https://www.facebook.com/groups/628322180575286/
5. How are the farm animals?
The farm animals are cared for at the Buncombe County farm, and we are hoping to connect with them as soon as possible. We will be sure to provide updates as we receive them.
6. Where can I find veterinary support?
Currently, several emergency vets operating on emergency basis only. We have provided a list of resources shared with us. Please call them to verify their current operating status prior to traveling to their location. If you have non-emergency needs we encourage you to consider a vet consultation app such as Just Answer, Pet Coach, or Chewy’s vet support (please note we have no relationship with these companies)
7. How can I best help the animals in my community?
Bringing pet food to distribution centers, checking in on your furry neighbors, and sheltering strays, if able, are the most important community needs. The shelters, rescues, and community in this area are a team. When in doubt, reach out. There is so much need and we are grateful for your efforts.
For the latest information, please click here.
Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.
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