The organization said shelters in the affected areas are overwhelmed and that teams are on the ground leading rescue efforts for pets from flood zones.
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Pets Alive! is helping rescue shelter animals displaced by severe flooding south of Austin.
The organization said shelters in the affected areas are overwhelmed and that teams are on the ground leading rescue efforts for pets from flood zones. APA! is asking the public to foster animals to make space for incoming rescues.
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On Wednesday evening, APA! took in 23 dogs and nine cats. As of 10 a.m. Thursday, the total had grown to 104 animals — 54 dogs and 50 cats — rescued from flooded areas.
APA! said its primary focus is clearing animals from impacted shelters. Because many pets were already in shelters before the flooding, facilities can face overcrowding and may be forced to euthanize to make room for newly found animals.
The group said it is prioritizing reuniting lost pets with their owners rather than transferring them out of the community, increasing the chances of reunification.
APA! also is assisting pet owners who evacuated due to dangerous flood conditions. The organization is providing resources including pet food, supplies, crates and medications, and is working with partners such as Kerrville Pets Alive! to track lost and found animals.
Here are ways you can help:
Adopt: APA! is offering a Name Your Own Adoption Fee on all animals.Foster: APA! is seeking fosters to take in animals for at least one week. Visit the Town Lake Animal Center, 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., between noon and 6 p.m.Volunteer: Help on-site with rescue efforts.Donate: Monetary donations support rescue vans, personal protective equipment and other supplies. More information is available by clicking here.