Pet Helpers Shares Disaster Preparedness Tips; Plans to Stay Open During Hurricane Dorian

Pet Helpers Adoption Center and Spay/Neuter Clinic announced today it is closely monitoring Hurricane Dorian and is prepared to shelter in place. The shelter will remain open and staffed before, during, and after the storm to ensure the shelter’s dogs and cats will be safely cared for throughout the duration of the storm. 

The staff will also be able to intake any animals displaced during and immediately following the storm.

“Our disaster preparedness plans are reviewed each year so in the event of a storm we can deploy as many resources as needed to help the animals in the Lowcountry,” Melissa Susko, Executive Director of Pet Helpers, said. “Staff and volunteers will stay at the shelter around the clock throughout the duration of the storm, as we did in previous hurricanes, to ensure the nearly 200 shelter pets in our care are safe and as comfortable as possible during this stressful time. Our phones will be monitored to the best of our ability.”

Pet Helpers is also offering assistance to pet owners and encouraging them to make similar plans. The shelter’s top tips for disaster preparedness are to:

• Bring all pets inside

  • If you are in need of a crate, Pet Helpers has crates of all sizes for a minimal donation.

• Ensure pet microchip identification information is registered and current

• Gather essential supplies for your pet, enough to last at least several days

• Bring your pet(s) and all pet supplies with you if evacuating

• Prepare a pet disaster kit if anticipating an evacuation

Before, during, and after the storm, Pet Helpers will be in urgent need of volunteer and foster parent support as a number of animals are expected to be displaced. Those interested in assisting, or donating funds during this challenging time can go to our website www.pethelpers.org . Learn more about the foster care and volunteer programs on their website or email volunteer@pethelpers.org or fostercare@pethelpers.org.

Pet Helpers is also asking the community for help with monetary donations as well as donated dog and cat food (to supply the public who needs extra food), fans, cases of water, and litter.  Donations can be dropped off at the shelter or purchased online and shipped to Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 (James Island).

“Animals are a part of the family so we implore pet parents to include them when making preparations,” Susko said. “Please bring animals inside to safety. Inevitably some pets are lost during every storm. If people make wise choices now, we can hope to reduce that number significantly and keep these animals safely at home and with their families.”

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