On August 31, we assisted in transporting 30 homeless dogs from Louisiana to Florida following Hurricane Laura. The unowned animals were relocated at the request of the Louisiana SPCA in New Orleans after they opened their doors to evacuated animals from coastal shelters most impacted by the hurricane. These 30 homeless dogs were relocated to SPCA Tampa Bay where they will be made available for adoption. 

This lifesaving transport is made possible thanks to support from The Rachael Ray Foundation™, a foundation started by television host and philanthropist Rachael Ray to help animals in need, which is funded by a portion of proceeds from each sale of Rachael’s pet food, Nutrish®. 

“Collaboration within the animal welfare community to support lifesaving emergency response efforts during disasters of Hurricane Laura’s magnitude are essential, and that’s even more true with the added complexities of a global pandemic,” said Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA. “We thank The Rachael Ray Foundation for enabling us to respond quickly when disaster strikes, and we commend the Louisiana SPCA and SPCA Tampa Bay for working tirelessly to safely meet the needs of these at-risk animals.” 

Hurricane Laura brought heavy rainfall and high winds to the Gulf Coast, impacting hundreds of thousands of residents, including pet owners. By relocating homeless animals from areas damaged by emergency situations through the ASPCA's Nancy Silverman Rescue Ride, not only are those homeless animals brought to safety, but much-needed space and resources are made available for displaced pets in impacted communities.