East Coast Animal Rescues Step Up to Help California Wildfire Displaced Dogs
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — As the devastating California wildfires continue to wreak havoc, an urgent call for help has reached the east Coast. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal rescue institution in Los Angeles, is clearing out its shelter to make room for pets displaced by the fires. Approximately 60 medium- to large-sized dogs, already homeless before the disaster, are being transported to partner rescues across the country, including the providence Animal Center (PAC) in Media, Pennsylvania.
The dogs are arriving in Newark, Delaware, thanks to the efforts of Wings of Rescue, a nonprofit organization specializing in animal transport during emergencies. “There’s 23 of them coming here, and onc they arrive in the state of Pennsylvania, they will need to be quarantined for two weeks,” explained PAC CEO Jo-Ann Zoll. This quarantine period is mandated by state law to ensure the health and safety of both the animals and the community.
Fraily Rodriguez, director of lifesaving programs for Best Friends, emphasized the importance of these transports during crises. “Animal transports during emergencies are done to alleviate the animals that are already in the shelter system and [they provide] more bandwidth for the shelters themselves,” Rodriguez said. This collaborative effort allows shelters in disaster-stricken areas to focus on reuniting lost pets with their owners, a critical task in the aftermath of wildfires.
Animals separated from their families during the wildfires remain in the affected areas to increase the chances of reunification.Simultaneously occurring, the dogs being transported to the East Coast were already in the shelter system, making them ideal candidates for relocation.To accommodate the influx of new arrivals,PAC is seeking foster families for dogs already in their care. “We need people who can open their hearts and homes to these animals,” Zoll added. Those interested in fostering can apply through PAC’s website.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Number of Dogs | Approximately 60 medium- to large-sized dogs |
| Transport Organization| Wings of Rescue |
| Quarantine period | Two weeks, as required by Pennsylvania state law |
| Primary Goal | free up shelter space for wildfire-displaced animals in California |
| How to Help | Apply to foster through PAC |
this initiative highlights the power of collaboration in times of crisis.By working together, animal rescues across the country are ensuring that no pet is left behind.If you’re in the Philadelphia area and have the capacity to foster,consider stepping up to make a difference.Featured Image Photo Credit: best Friends Animal Society
East Coast Animal Rescues Step Up to Help California Wildfire-Displaced Dogs
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — As the devastating California wildfires continue to wreak havoc, an urgent call for help has reached the East coast. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal rescue institution in Los Angeles, is clearing out its shelter to make room for pets displaced by the fires. Approximately 60 medium- to large-sized dogs, already homeless before the disaster, are being transported to partner rescues across the country, including the Providence Animal Center (PAC) in Media,Pennsylvania.
The Role of Wings of Rescue in Transporting Dogs
Senior Editor: dr. Emily Carter, thank you for joining us today. Could you explain the role of Wings of Rescue in this initiative?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely. wings of Rescue is a nonprofit organization that specializes in transporting animals during emergencies. In this case, they are facilitating the movement of approximately 60 dogs from California to the East Coast.Their expertise ensures that the animals are safely transported across long distances, which is crucial during such critical times.
The Importance of Quarantine
Senior Editor: Once these dogs arrive in Pennsylvania, they must undergo a two-week quarantine. Can you elaborate on why this is necessary?
Dr. Emily Carter: certainly. The quarantine period is mandated by Pennsylvania state law to ensure the health and safety of both the animals and the community. It allows us to monitor the dogs for any signs of illness or infectious diseases that could pose a risk. This step is essential, especially when dealing with animals from different regions that may have been exposed to various environmental factors.
Freeing Up Shelter Space in California
Senior editor: What is the primary goal of transporting these dogs to the East Coast?
Dr. Emily Carter: The primary goal is to free up shelter space in California to accommodate pets displaced by the wildfires. By relocating dogs that were already in the shelter system, we are allowing West Coast shelters to focus on reuniting lost pets with their owners. This is a critical task in the aftermath of such disasters.
How the Community Can Help
Senior Editor: What can people in the Philadelphia area do to assist with this effort?
Dr. Emily Carter: Local residents can play a significant role by becoming foster families for dogs already in the care of PAC. By opening their hearts and homes, they provide these animals with a safe and loving environment while freeing up space for incoming dogs.Those interested can apply through PAC’s website to become foster parents.
The Power of Collaboration During Crises
Senior Editor: This initiative highlights the importance of collaboration. can you share some insights on how different organizations are working together?
Dr.Emily carter: Collaboration is indeed key during crises. Organizations like Best Friends Animal Society, Wings of Rescue, and PAC are working hand-in-hand to ensure that no pet is left behind.By pooling resources and expertise, we can address the immediate needs of animals affected by disasters and create a more resilient network for future emergencies.
Concluding Thoughts
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for your valuable insights. what are the main takeaways from this initiative?
Dr. Emily Carter: The main takeaways are the importance of collaboration, the need for community involvement, and the critical role of quarantine in ensuring animal and public health. By working together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of animals affected by disasters. I encourage everyone in the Philadelphia area to consider fostering if they have the capacity—it’s a small act that can have a profound impact.