How to Help Pets Affected by Hurricane Helene and Other Natural Disasters

If you’ve been watching the news in recent weeks, you’ve seen the sad destruction that Hurricane Helene has caused on the East Coast. More that 200 people across six states have died, many people have lost homes, and animals have also suffered. Pets have run away or been injured in the September 2024 hurricane, landing them in animal shelters across the country. Many animals remain lost. And pets who are currently living in shelters awaiting adoption have found themselves living without food and power at times. The situation has been further complicated by the arrival of Hurricane Milton, which threatens to be Florida’s most severe storm in over a century.

Fortunately, some great organizations have been stepping in to help. The Humane Society of the United States, for instance, has dispatched teams of volunteers and staff to rescue pets, transport dogs and cats to safer areas, and ensure they have food and medical care. Meanwhile, other organizations are ramping up their fundraising efforts, such as the nonprofit Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, which is foster-based out of northern Virginia with a rescue campus in South Carolina. The organization is hosting an upcoming Casino Night Gala in Washington, D.C., from which proceeds will help its rescue efforts to transport displaced pets out of hurricane-affected areas. 

It’s hard to sit back and watch reports of people and animals being affected by a disaster, especially if you’re unsure how you can help them. But you can make an impact wherever you live, even from the comfort and safety of your own home. Here are some different options to consider:

6 Ways to Help Pets After a Disaster

Make a donation

Many animal welfare organizations, such as the Humane Society of the United States, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, ASPCA, and Best Friends Animal Society, have programs that help pets when natural disasters strike. Find a reputable organization that is accepting donations, whether it’s a local or national endeavor, and contribute. You can use services like Charity Navigator to check if an organization is reputable and see how the funds are spent. You can also donate pet supplies, such dog and cat food, crates, towels, and blankets, to animals shelters in need. Some organizations may even have an Amazon Wish List if you are unable to drop off items in person.

Hold a fundraising event

Organize a car wash or bake sale and have the proceeds benefit animals displaced from storms. You can also put together a raffle, sell tickets, and contact local organizations to ask if they are able to donate prizes. It doesn’t have to be a big event to make an impact. Even a lemonade stand with your kids can be helpful in raising some money for pets in need. It’s a great opportunity to teach kids about the importance of giving back. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, make it easy to create mini fundraisers where you can post and encourage followers to donate and select organizations to send the funds to.

Adopt a pet in need

Adoptable animals who are displaced from shelters following natural disasters are often desperate for new homes. If you’re searching for a new pet to add to your pack, consider adopting an animal in need. Many of the evacuated animals from the Hurricane Helene aftermath are being moved to shelters across the country, in states including Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. Inquire with your local shelter about animals available for adoption. Some shelters may even offer reduced adoption fees to help make room for other animals being transported from partner shelters impacted by the hurricanes.

Foster an affected pet

Not in a position to permanently take in an animal? Consider opening up your home to foster a dog or cat who was impacted by a natural disaster. You can provide them with food, water, shelter, and love while you help them get paired with a forever family who can take them in full time. When Greenville Humane Society in South Carolina lost power from Hurricane Helene, they were able to place more than 250 animals in foster homes thanks to community members who stepped up!

Volunteer your time

Team up with local organizations who are taking in shelter pets and volunteer to walk them or comfort them. If you live in an area affected by natural disasters, join a local crew who is working to help animals in need. They often are looking for volunteers in these trying times.

Spread the word

Hear about an organization that is raising funds to help displaced pets? Spread the word on social media. Share posts about adoptable pets from recent storms who are looking for homes. Inform other animal lovers on ways that they can get involved. The more the word gets out, the more people can really team up to make an impact. Organizations that are currently taking donations and are actively involved in animal rescue across impacted areas include Rescue Ranch, Animal Search and Rescue, Code3 Associates, and American Veterinary Medical Foundation.

Pet Disaster Preparedness Tips

Tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes… There are many different types of natural disasters that can impact people and pets. If you don’t already have a disaster preparedness plan in place, here are some proactive steps you can take to help keep your pets safe. 

Create an emergency kit for your pet

Pack essentials including several days’ supply of food and water, first aid kit, medications your pet takes, a pet carrier, a collar and harness or leash, toys, and comfort items and keep them ready in a “go bag.” Keep a picture of you and your pet in the bag also so that if you get separated, you can help rescue workers identify your pet.

Have an evacuation plan

If you find yourself in a dangerous situation like a flood or fire, you may be forced to evacuate your home. However, if you seek refuge in a shelter, they may not allow animals — or have room for them. Have a plan in place of where you can take your pets so that they will be safe as well. You should also have an electronic copy of your pet’s medical records, which can be helpful for whoever will be temporarily housing them. 

Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing an ID tag

Should your pet get lost or injured during a disaster, having a microchip and ID tag with your current address, phone number, and emergency contact information will greatly improve your chances of being reunited.