Flood Forces Shelter to Evacuate 300 Pets, Community Rallies
A sudden flood in Anderson, Indiana, forced the Animal Protection League (APL) to evacuate about 300 dogs and cats. Heavy rains, some areas receiving more than a foot, raised the White River to a record level, and two feet of water entered the shelter, staying for roughly 48 hours. The floodwater may have contained raw sewage, requiring extensive cleaning before the shelter could reopen.
The community answered APL’s urgent call for crates, carriers, sandbags, foster homes, and volunteers. All evacuated pets were placed in emergency foster homes or partner rescues. Cats were moved to two separate locations, and APL rented an off-site space with better ventilation to help them recover. Staff searched for cat condos and other comforts to ease the stress of sudden relocation.
iHeartCats Hero VIP Club members contributed donations and care packages, providing practical supplies and comfort to the cats during the crisis. Their support helped APL focus on protecting the animals and ensuring they felt safe again.
The flood left the shelter with damaged furniture, contaminated building, and weeks of cleaning and repairs. Despite the challenges, foster families, volunteers, and rescue partners stepped up, creating new connections that may lead to permanent homes for some cats.
Key takeaways
- Two feet of floodwater entered APL, remaining for about 48 hours.
- Roughly 300 pets were evacuated and placed in foster homes or partner rescues.
- Community donations and iHeartCats Hero VIP members supplied essential supplies and comfort.
- APL moved cats to an off-site space with better ventilation and searched for cat condos.
- The flood caused extensive damage, requiring weeks of cleaning and repairs.
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Originally reported by iHeartCats. Read the full article.
Cover photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich via Pexels.
