August 12, 2022

UPDATE: 

Our team has remained on the ground in Kentucky following our initial response and has since impacted nearly 700 animals who were affected by the catastrophic flooding that devastated the area. During this time, we’ve been assisting with field rescue and homeless animal relocation, and have distributed over 4,000 lb. of pet food and litter. 

At the request of the Hazard Area Command, we are on the ground supporting the Animal Care branch at the Emergency Operations Center as well as conducting search and rescue throughout Knott, Letcher, Perry and Breathitt counties in Kentucky for animal victims impacted by the recent floods. We are also supporting pet owners in the community by providing pet food and supplies donations for displaced animals across the four counties. 

In addition, we are facilitating the transport of more than 25 unowned cats from Kentucky Humane Society to MSPCA-Angell, as well as two transports of unowned dogs to Connecticut Humane Society and Dumb Friends League in Colorado. These cats and dogs were all in Kentucky animal shelters before the flooding began and will be made available for adoption in the coming days and weeks.  

We are continuing to communicate with emergency management agencies and animal welfare organizations across Kentucky and stand ready to provide additional support upon request.  

“In emergency situations like this, the ASPCA’s priority is to provide the critical support and resources needed to assist animals and pet owners impacted by these deadly floods,” said Tim Rickey, Vice President, ASPCA National Field Response. “The ASPCA Disaster Response team is grateful to collaborate with local agencies to ensure we are bringing animals to safety.” 

Our disaster response efforts have been made possible thanks to the generous support of the Alex & Elisabeth Lewyt Charitable Trust.