In the wake of Hurricane Beryl’s destructive path through Texas, communities are coming together to support the hundreds of injured and orphaned animals left in its wake. Dr. Katie Luke, a veterinarian and the chief operations officer for the Austin Humane Society, recently spoke with FOX Weather about the efforts being made to assist pets in distress following the natural disaster.
The Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center has been at the forefront of the rescue and rehabilitation efforts, taking in nearly 1,100 wild animals that were impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Among the animals cared for are birds such as Mississippi kites, mourning doves, and white-winged doves, as well as opossums and squirrels. The Wildlife Center has already taken in over 200 orphaned or injured wild animals, showcasing the immense need for support in the aftermath of the storm.
The Austin Humane Society has also been actively involved in aiding displaced animals in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. Dr. Katie Luke shared that the organization has been providing assistance to stray cats and dogs, pulling animals out of shelters on the coast to ensure they are ready to respond to pets in need in their communities. The Austin Humane Society has a long history of responding to hurricanes, dating back to the 1950s, and has refined their approach to prioritize the safety and well-being of animals in the face of natural disasters.
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, the city of Austin has been relatively spared from the power outages and infrastructure issues plaguing coastal areas. Dr. Luke mentioned that efforts are underway to potentially relocate animals from shelters in affected areas to Austin, where they can receive proper care and shelter. The Austin Humane Society is actively seeking support from the community, whether through financial donations to assist in caring for the animals or through fostering or adopting pets to help find them permanent homes.
For those looking to contribute to the relief efforts, the Austin Humane Society has provided avenues for support. Financial donations are always welcome and can be made through their website at AustinHumaneSociety.org. Additionally, an Amazon wish list has been created for those who wish to send supplies such as dog treats or toys to keep the animals occupied and comfortable during their stay at the shelter.
As Texas communities continue to recover and rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the dedication and compassion shown towards the welfare of animals in distress serve as a testament to the resilience and unity of the human spirit in times of crisis. Through collaborative efforts and support from individuals and organizations alike, the well-being of these animals can be safeguarded as they navigate the challenges brought on by natural disasters.
