Hurricane Ian tore through South Florida nearly a week ago, but rescue efforts continue as residual floodwaters still affect areas across the state. People are waiting for floodwaters to recede while water in some places continues to rise.
With widespread, weeklong power outages, photos of people and their precious pets being rescued can now only be shared.
Unfortunately, most hurricane shelters don’t allow pets, so those in the path of a hurricane can sometimes face an incredibly difficult decision: stay in your home and weather the storm with your furry family members, or seek refuge in a shelter and be forced to leave your pets behind.
Many pet parents may think this decision is a no-brainer, but they have certainly never faced a life-threatening force of nature like Hurricane Ian. It was a spectacularly powerful storm that made landfall just under Category five. The effects of high winds and rainfall were catastrophic and caused massive amounts of devastation, plus floodwaters rose rapidly across the state of Florida.
However, local communities continue to come together to take care of their own. These photos were posted on Orange County, Florida Government Facebook Page and shows that residents and their furry family members have been taken to safety.
The Orange County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department are continuing to conduct water rescue operations following Hurricane Ian, as many roads remain impassable due to flooding.
Although shelters were prepared for the inevitable influx of animals, resources were depleted as many people were no longer able to care for their pets after the storm.
Many homes have been damaged so badly that people are forced to flee while they find a new place to live or stay somewhere else while they make necessary repairs.
But because so many people are struggling to secure pet-friendly accommodations, shelters in Florida are filling up quickly. This in addition to The pets were separated from their families during the turbulent times of the storm.
But even remotely, you can help. Organizations like ours are raising funds for the animals affected by Hurricane Ian. You can click here to donate and support our efforts to send life-saving food and supplies.
In the midst of suffering and tragedy, it is wonderful to see communities coming together to care for themselves.
Featured pictures: Facebook
