ASPCA grant supports animals, owners in Midwestern states

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The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in February announced the first recipients of a grant providing more than $50,000 to Midwestern communities for monetary support, training, and expertise that helps animals and pet owners during and after disasters.

The ASPCA Midwest Disaster Resiliency Program assists animal welfare organizations and government agencies in Midwestern states that experience disasters at a high rate but often receive little attention or support.

“Communities must be prepared to rescue, shelter, and provide emergency care for pets, as we’ve seen pet owners put their own lives in jeopardy if the local community doesn’t have a system in place to assist or accommodate their pets,” said Elizabeth Dominguez, ASPCA disaster response manager.

Grant monies were given to groups in states including Iowa, South Dakota, Arkansas, and Oklahoma for needs ranging from water rescue equipment and training to emergency storage trailers.

In addition to launching the ASPCA Midwest Disaster Resiliency Program, the ASPCA has been working with PetSmart Charities Inc. to support animal welfare organizations across the country by providing the equipment and supplies necessary to respond to large-scale disasters. PetSmart Charities has provided its first grant of $6,550 to the Nebraska Humane Society for disaster response equipment such as crates and other sheltering supplies that will allow the society to board and care for an increased number of animals in the event of a disaster.

Organizations interested in applying for funding or assistance through the Midwest Disaster Resiliency Program should contact elizabeth [dot] dominguezataspca [dot] org (elizabeth[dot]dominguez[at]aspca[dot]org). Organizations outside the Midwest seeking disaster response funding should visit here.