In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, Manatee County Animal Welfare in Florida is facing an overwhelming number of animals in need of care. Nearly 120 animals were either found or turned in during the week following the storm, putting a strain on the facility’s resources and capacity.
The Animal Care Division Manager, Jennifer Hume, shared that the facility is currently over capacity due to the influx of animals after the storm. Many of these animals are strays that may have escaped during the storm or were abandoned by their owners. Hume emphasized the stress that animals experience during severe weather events and the importance of providing them with a safe and secure environment.
One heartwarming story that emerged from the aftermath of Debby is that of a dog named Arrow. Arrow was brought back to the shelter by his previous owners after their home was flooded during the storm. Despite the difficult decision to surrender him, Arrow is now in the care of the animal welfare facility, where staff are working tirelessly to find him a new loving home.
In addition to the challenges of caring for the animals, the shelter is also facing a decrease in adoptions following the storm. Hume noted that the back-to-school season typically sees a lull in adoptions, but the impact of the storm has further exacerbated this trend. To encourage adoptions and help alleviate the overcrowding, the facility has waived all adoption and reclaim fees.
Hume also highlighted the importance of providing support to families who may be struggling to care for their pets in the aftermath of a natural disaster. The shelter offers free food for families in need, aiming to prevent pets from being surrendered due to temporary hardships. By providing this assistance, the shelter hopes to keep families together and reduce the number of animals in need of rehoming.
Despite the challenges faced by Manatee County Animal Welfare, Hume remains dedicated to ensuring that every animal in their care receives the attention and support they need. Through social media outreach and weekly meetings, the shelter is working diligently to find forever homes for the animals in their care.
As the community comes together to support the shelter and the animals affected by Tropical Storm Debby, there is hope that these animals will soon find loving families to call their own. Manatee County Animal Welfare continues to provide essential care and support to these animals, demonstrating their commitment to animal welfare in the face of adversity.
