88 Cats and Dogs Were Airlifted to Utah from Flooded Texas in Under 24 Hours (Exclusive)

**Emergency Airlift Rescues Shelter Pets from Texas Floods**

In a remarkable display of community effort, a recent emergency airlift successfully transported 88 shelter pets out of harm’s way following devastating floods in Central Texas. Organised by Best Friends Animal Society in collaboration with Austin Pets Alive!, Footbridge Foundation, and Wings of Rescue, the operation saw 42 cats and 46 dogs fly from San Marcos, Texas, to the organisation’s Pet Adoption Centre in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Friday, July 17.

The rescue operation took place just one day after heavy rainfall led to severe flooding in the region, affecting numerous animal shelters already struggling to care for pets in need. Sophia Proler, South Central Region Director for Best Friends Animal Society, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “It was definitely all-hands-on-deck.” Remarkably, the dedicated team secured the flight within 22 hours of recognising the escalating crisis.

Importantly, all the animals involved in the airlift had been awaiting adoption in shelters prior to the floods and had not been separated from their families by rising waters. The evacuation was designed to create additional space in Texas shelters for those pets that were truly displaced and required immediate assistance. Dr. Ellen Jefferson, President and CEO of Austin Pets Alive!, emphasised the critical nature of such rescues. “When disaster hits like this, government shelters are overwhelmed with lost pets,” she remarked, highlighting the risk of euthanising animals to make room for newcomers.

Prior to boarding the aircraft, each pet underwent medical assessments to ensure they were fit for travel. Sadly, some animals deemed too medically compromised to fly were left behind for ongoing care in Texas. Proler noted that one of these pets now resides in her home, exemplifying the collaborative spirit of the rescue effort.

Upon reaching Salt Lake City, the newly-arrived animals received thorough examinations from Best Friends’ veterinary team. They will undergo any necessary medical treatments, including vaccinations and spay/neuter surgeries, before being put up for adoption. A total of nine partner organisations in Utah, such as Pawsitive Pet Rescue and Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups, welcomed a portion of the rescued animals, demonstrating the collective resolve to support the pets in need.

Within 72 hours of the initial airlift, the team conducted a second rescue flight, moving yet another group of pets out of perilous circumstances. Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends, expressed deep concern for the plight of both pets and their owners impacted by the floods. “We are heartbroken by the devastation and losses due to this week’s tragic floods in Central Texas,” she stated.

Proler, who has personal experience with disaster preparedness from her time in Houston during Hurricane Harvey, emphasised the importance of proactive measures for pet owners. She recommends microchipping pets as a crucial step, often available for free or at low cost through many veterinary clinics. Furthermore, she highlighted the value of a collar and ID tag, along with a “pet go-bag” that includes essentials such as food, a water bowl, a leash, a cat carrier, a first-aid kit, and recent photographs of the pet. “Sometimes you have minutes to gather your belongings, and you would never want to leave them behind,” Proler cautioned.

For those who wish to assist, there are many avenues available including fostering or adopting through organisations like Footbridge Foundation, Hill Country Humane Society, and Austin Pets Alive!, which are actively involved in relocating pets from flood-affected areas. Furthermore, donations to the Best Friends Emergency Response Fund support vital resources such as food, medical care, and shelter for animals throughout the region.

As communities come together to respond to these overwhelming challenges, the recent airlift showcases the power of collaboration and compassion, ensuring that vulnerable animals are granted the second chance they truly deserve.