Osceola County Animal Services joins rescue effort; has pets from Ida evacuation

Osceola County Animal Services has opened its doors to some of 200 dogs and cats from areas of Louisiana and Mississippi ravaged earlier this month by Hurricane Ida.

The county's animal shelter reports all animals arrived healthy and happy. They will be quarantined briefly and will then be ready for adoption. The animals came from shelters in Louisiana that had to make room for animals displaced by the storm.

“Having weathered a few hurricanes ourselves, we know how traumatic it can be for people and animals,” said Commission Chairman Brandon Arrington. “This is a great way of paying back the help we often get from animal rescue groups. In much the way people need help after a disaster, so do pets. It’s a great feeling knowing that we are welcoming these beleaguered animals – and that they are being cared for and looked after.”

The Florida Association of Animal Welfare Organizations orchestrated the effort, with the animals being transported to a hub at the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando. From there, Osceola County took delivery of its share kittens, puppies and dogs.