Being part of a community equates to strength in times of crisis.  The Status Puerto Rico website claims 14% of the island has electricity and 53% cell service.  College of Education instructor, Dr. Emily Hoeh,  witnessed  the devastation in Puerto Rico on a recent mission.  The island, hard hit  by the Hurricane Maria – still without power, lacking food and supplies.    Many left before and after the hurricane, leaving behind pets.

Suncoast Animal League flew in the first time with vaccines and food to help, but were shocked by conditions and promised to return.  Word got out and two planes sponsored by Helen Rich from On the Wings of Angels Rescue and Suncoast Animal League were partnered  to go back.  The planes flew Suncoast volunteers with food and supplies donated from the generous community to take back to Puerto Rico and get to those in need.  Their plan — fill the plane with as many dogs and cats as they could.

Community

Dr. Emily Hoeh, Suncoast Animal volunteer, helped bring back 85 dogs and 26 cats on the return trip.  Suncoast Animal League had to find temporary housing for 111 animals that needed medical attention, baths and vetting.  Again, community stepped up.  Creative Sign Designs loaned out a warehouse for a month to use as housing.

Thank you to On the Wings of Angels Rescue for sponsoring the cost of the planes, Creative Design for donating temporary housing and for Suncoast Animal League for rescuing 111 animals.  Thanks to all the vets, caring volunteers, groomers/bathers who helped with this cause.

Adopt or Foster?

Around 35 of the Puerto Rican dogs and cats will be available for adoption at the 10th Annual Dogtoberfest on November 11th in Highlander Park in Dunedin.  Possibly more if spayed/neutered in time.  Over 50 rescue groups will be in attendance.