ASPCA WTC Rescue Mission Continues

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Wednesday, 26 September 2001

More than 200 companion animals recovered.

As of late last week, more than 200 pets had been rescued from homes that were evacuated following the World Trade Center disaster--that number includes cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits and a gecko who an ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement agent walked up 38 flights of stairs to save. Additionally, about 300 pets received medical care from ASPCA veterinarians. Local vets, kennels, and volunteer foster programs are currently providing shelter to animals in need. "The animals are being treated for dehydration, respiratory distress and shock," says Dr. Larry Hawk, ASPCA President and CEO, "but the good news is that the majority of these pets are okay. It's important to remember that these pets are four-legged family members. We've seen many owners simply break down in tears of joy after being reunited with a pet they have not seen in days."

The ASPCA is currently helping to arrange foster care for displaced pet owners who can no longer keep their animals with them in temporary housing. We are currently only looking for volunteers who can provide foster care in New York City (the five boroughs). Interested New York City residents can call our special disaster volunteer hotline at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4740.

We are creating a database of pets reported missing during the WTC disaster and those subsequently reported found by rescue groups. To report a missing or found animal, please write to wtcdisaster@aspca.org or contact Trish Sarson at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4549. Sarson is also handling all calls from owners who need help transporting their pets through pedestrian-only zones.

The ASPCA is offering bereavement counseling services and pet therapy and stress reduction for rescue and relief workers--call Susan Urban at (212) 876-7700, ext.4354 for more information. Behavior counseling is available to owners of animals who were left stranded during the disaster and are now suffering post-traumatic behavior problems. The ASPCA Center for Behavioral Therapy can be reached at (212) 876-7700, ext.4423.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org