American Humane Association's famed Red Star Animal Emergency Services team is in Oklahoma's storm-ravaged communities helping animals who need rescue and shelter in the wake of the devastating tornado. Our Red Star team has been working feverishly with local, state and national organizations to help restore hope through an outpouring of compassion. But even with signs of hope and recovery, there is so much that needs to be done before these communities can return to any state of normalcy.
Hundreds of frightened animals have found themselves suddenly homeless. When disaster strikes - and chaos sets in - animals can be injured or lost. The clock is ticking, panic rises and, when it's time to seek safety, people may be away from home and unable to retrieve their beloved pets. Even wild animals, despite their survival instincts, cannot always save themselves from a perilous situation.
Red Star first-responders are highly trained experts in rescuing and sheltering animal disaster victims. Through strategic field operations, they retrieve animals from dangerous areas and feed and care for animal victims in temporary shelters until they can be reunited with their families or adopted into forever homes. In heartwarming scenes, pets are already being reunited with their loving families at the temporary shelter, but many more may come in needing immediate aid.
The long-term impact of Red Star animal relief work: Healthy and happy animal disaster survivors. The impact can also be felt by the people who love these animals. Studies show that disaster victims are less likely to evacuate to safety if they aren't certain their pets will be cared for. With Red Star responders looking out for the animals, people can look out for their own safety. And when they're able to bring their treasured pets safely back home, the impact lives on indefinitely.
