Rescuers find missing pets in Kentucky tornado killing

Last weekend, an EF4 tornado devastated parts of Western Kentucky. Thousands of homes were destroyed, at least 77 people died, and many families were displaced and separated – and their pets.

One town in particular was hit hard. The town of Mayfield, KY, with a population of about 10,000, was hit and the tornado left thousands homeless. Not only were homes and apartment buildings destroyed, but family pets were also missing amid the chaos.

While some were lucky enough to find their animals alive amid the devastation, the others weren’t so lucky.

Many dogs and cats are still missing as the search for people and pets in the rubble continues. After a week of searching, many people are still hoping to find signs of their animals and have heard that they are fine. However, not many residents affected by the tornado had search facilities. Many people do not have running water, electricity, and transportation and rely solely on rescue organizations for good news.

Fortunately, there are many groups involved, including the Humane Society of the United States. They have a rescue team on the ground in Mayfield, searching for missing pets and helping animals escape the wreckage and find safety.

Rescuers are providing “essential supplies, shelter support and funding needed to help this community begin to heal.”

While searching for debris, a few rescuers found a white dog. The puppy is extremely friendly and eager to see humans. He must have missed his family and wanted to know what was going on.

Reuniting animals with their owners would be harder said than done, but animals found by Humane Society rescuers, like the friendly dog, will be cared for in a shelter safely, temporarily until further steps can be taken to move their families into permanent housing and reconnect with their pets.

Groups like these bring hope and light to the darkest of situations. Watch the video below to learn more about their work on Mayfield: