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Pets rescued from South Georgia Hurricane Michael damage zone need new homes

Dogs and cats, similar to the ones pictured here, have been rescued from shelters in south Georgia impacted by Hurricane Michael and need new homes. Photo: Pixabay

ATLANTA — Pets rescued from south Georgia following Hurricane Michael need new homes.

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The Atlanta Humane Society, as it often does following disasters, has taken in dogs and cats from the Albany area. Shelter facilities there were without power or water for days after the devastating storm. Last year the organization took in more than 1,000 animals from areas impacted by hurricane damage.

The Albany arrivals will be medically evaluated and then put up for adoption at the AHS' two shelter locations. The main branch is at 981 Howell Mill Road in Midtown and the north Fulton one is at 1565 Mansell Road. Call 404-875-5331 or see atlantahumane.org for information.

Hurricane Michael slammed into the Florida Panhandle a week ago as a powerful Category 4 storm. The Alaqua Animal Refuge, about 70 miles from the coast, has launched a program to extend relief to animals and their owners in the hard- hit area.

The refuge’s structures and the 350 animals it houses came through the storm fine, with only minimal property damage, so it is now offering help.

“We’re blessed, so we’re turning our focus to help others,” president and founder Laurie Hood said. “Losing a pet during this time adds more strain to people who are already over-stressed and have little or no resources.”

Alaqua is offering to help search for lost, abandoned and injured animals in addition to offering temporary refuge for pets, displaced horses and farm animals. The facility’s veterinary staff members are on stand-by to provide medical treatment.

"We take the animals out, provide medical treatment and keep them safe, with the goal to eventually reunite them with their owners," Hood said. "We work with appropriate agencies, manage the process in an organized manner, and know how to handle frightened and injured animals."

Florida Panhandle pet or farm-animal owners can reach out by calling 850-880-6694 (leave a message) or by emailing LHood@alaqua.org. For full details see alaqua.org/michael.