UPDATES FROM TEXAS AND PUERTO RICO

These animals safely rode out the storm in crates (and darkness) in Puerto Rico.

Dear Friends,

I write this update with – like so many of our rescue contacts and friends—one eye on the weather forecast. It is hard to comprehend the impact both Hurricanes Harvey and Irma have had (and continue to have) on the animal rescue and greater national community.

Here at Cape Ann Animal Aid, we are hundreds of miles away, but in spirit, we stand with our rescue partners in both Texas and Puerto Rico. We are in contact with the rescue groups and continue to be on standby to accommodate their needs.

TEXAS
From Texas, we are happy to share that a transport has been scheduled and we expect the arrival of about 20 animals from Texas early next week. (More news and photos about that coming soon!) These animals made it though the storm and we are eager to introduce them to the northeast and help them find loving homes where they will be pampered and loved beyond belief! Most of the animals will need to be spayed/neutered and all will need vet exams and vaccine boosters. If you’d like to help us provide for the animals on this transport, we are accepting donations to our Safe Harbor Fund (write Texas in the comments). If you’d prefer, you can also make a donation directly to Chances Dog Rescue and Relocation.

PUERTO RICO
News from our rescue partners in Puerto Rico is that they dodged the worst of the storm, but that doesn’t mean things aren't bad. The conditions for homeless animals (who already face a very difficult life) are dire. Power has not returned to the island and our main contact at All Sato Rescue is currently caring for many animals in her house – including a hen and an orphaned chick! They face flooding in their area and supplies are dwindling. We are eager to organize transports with our rescue partners, but we expect planes to be grounded for several more days. If you’d like to help, you can make a donation to our Safe Harbor Fund (write Puerto Rico in the comments) or donate directly to our rescue partners: All Sato Rescue, Wags to Riches, or Our Big Fat Caribbean Rescue.

WHAT TO GIVE
The recurring message we hear from all of our partners is that at this time, donations of money or gift cards are most helpful. Many do not have access to storage for supplies or cannot yet assess their supply needs. Money and gift cards help with immediate needs as they arise. When this changes, we will let you know.

As Hurricane Irma approaches the Florida coast, it’s hard to know just what to say to our rescue partners, and all those facing the impending storm, to bring them comfort and peace. They are all are facing life-changing hardships and experiencing overwhelming grief, shock, and confusion. What I do know is that you, reading this right now, are a valued member of our Cape Ann Animal Aid family. I know that you will continue to stand with us in spirit and in action. Together, we send our deepest thoughts of strength and love to those that are on the front lines, working hard to save the lives of people and animals in need during this trying time.

Stay tuned for more updates and please, reach out if you have any questions.

Warmly,
Sunniva Buck
Executive Director

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