American Humane Aids Animals in Times of Disaster and Donates $2,000 to Alleviate Livestock Food Shortages in Minnesota

American Humane Association
Tuesday, 9 July 2002

American Humane has donated $2,000 to provide an emergency food supply for 1,100 head of livestock and 30 horses affected by the flooding in Minnesota. Combined with a matching donation by the Humane Society of the United States, the funds should cover the immediate needs of the area.

The donation was requested through the Minnesota Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MN VOAD) and will be managed by the Roseau Range Riders in partnership with the County Extension Service and the Minnesota Horse Council.

American Humane is a member of MN VOAD and responds to disasters across the country through the Red Star Emergency Services program, which has helped the animal victims of disasters since 1916. Recently, Red Star activated a team of trained National Responders to assist with the search and rescue of animal victims of the Rodeo-Chediski fires in Arizona. Red Star's state-of-the-art Animal Planet Rescue Rig served as a temporary holding area and emergency triage center for animals abandoned when their owners were evacuated. Red Star also donated $1,000 to animals left homeless by the fires in Colorado, where Red Star worked closely with local animal shelters and rescue groups during the Hayman, Iron Mountain, and Missionary Ridge fires.

American Humane urges pet owners to provide all pets with current ID tags. Tags should include the pet's name, the owner's name and telephone number, a friend or relative's telephone number, and any special health requirements. Pet owners should also create a family emergency plan that includes bringing their pets with them upon evacuation. If it is unsafe for residents to remain at home, it is also unsafe for pets.

For more information, or to contact American Humane Association, see their website at: www.americanhumane.org