United States - September 30, 2024

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating path through Florida and Tennessee, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has sprung into action, deploying teams to assist communities overwhelmed by the storm's aftermath. The HSUS is on the ground, offering critical aid to animals left in peril by the hurricane.

In Tennessee, HSUS is alleviating shelter overcrowding in Cocke County by transferring approximately 45 adoptable animals to safer facilities in Maryland. This emergency relocation aims to free up space for displaced pets, enhancing the chances of reuniting them with their owners. Meanwhile, in nearby Unicoi County, where the local animal shelter was rendered uninhabitable by flooding, HSUS is supporting the urgent evacuation efforts, ensuring all animals received immediate care, with some finding temporary homes in foster care and others moved to Sullivan County.

The situation in Florida is equally dire, with Madison County facing a trifecta of hurricanes within a year. Here, HSUS has set up a drive-thru distribution for pet supplies, responding to a plea from local authorities for aid. Further south, in Taylor County, the organization is establishing a pop-up veterinary clinic to address the medical needs of pets whose regular veterinary services were compromised by the storm.

Jessica Johnson, Senior Director of HSUS’s Animal Rescue Team, expressed the urgency of their mission: "The impact of Hurricane Helene is shocking. We are dedicated to aiding both people and their pets in these trying times. Whether it's through search and rescue, veterinary care, or supply distribution, we're here to help in recovery efforts."

Additionally, HSUS is gearing up to respond to requests from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, showing their commitment to broader regional support. The organization's international arm, Humane Society International, is also deploying teams to Mexico and India, highlighting the global scale of natural disasters and the need for animal welfare responses.

Hurricane Helene's unexpected severity has brought unprecedented challenges to areas not typically at risk, underscoring the importance of disaster preparedness for pets. HSUS advises pet owners to have disaster kits ready, ensuring that in future crises, both animals and their human families can be quickly mobilized to safety.

[Credit: The Humane Society of the United States]