UPDATE 8/26: As response efforts continue in the aftermath of the devastating Louisiana floods spanning East Baton Rouge and Lafayette Parish, the ASPCA’s assistance has extended into another week. We continue to work with the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition (NARSC) at the request of Louisiana State Animal Response Team (LSART) with the sheltering and daily care of approximately 300 affected companion animals. Responders from partner rescue groups are also on the ground to assist in these sheltering efforts, to ensure that the displaced animals remain in safe care as they wait to be reunited with their families.

 “We remain committed to the animals impacted by this disaster, and hope to see them back home with their families soon,” said Lacie Davis, Disaster Response Manager of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. Member support allows us to continue to be prepared at a moment’s notice for the animals who need us most. Please consider a gift today to help us reach even more animals in need.

This post was originally published on 8/16/16

In the midst of severe flooding spanning East Baton Rouge and Lafayette Parish, the ASPCA has dispatched its Disaster Response Team to Louisiana to conduct water rescues for animals. At least six people have died in the disaster, with approximately 20,000 residents displaced.

Our team is acting at the request of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry and is working with the Louisiana State Animal Response Team (LSART) to coordinate local resources required to rescue the large number of animals displaced by flash floods.

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“Many people consider pets as family members, and losing a pet on top of this already tragic situation can be horribly stressful,” said Dr. Dick Green, Senior Director of Disaster Response for the ASPCA Field Investigations and Response team. “We want to give people peace of mind while they cope with this crisis by making sure their pets are safe.” Residents who need assistance with recovering a pet from their home or emergency sheltering for their pets are encouraged to contact the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (OHSEP).

These rescues coincide with the ASPCA’s ongoing sheltering of more than 1,000 farm animals removed from a neglectful property in Westport, Massachusetts, as well as several other concurrent operations nationwide. Resources are stretched thin and your support is urgently needed. Please make a donation to the ASPCA today to enable our team to continue to be there for these and other animals in need at a moment’s notice.