Houston SPCA Emergency Response Team Deploys to Tampa Bay for Disaster Relief
The Houston SPCA’s Emergency Response Team is set to depart for Tampa Bay, Florida, on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 4:30 a.m. This deployment comes at the request of SPCA Tampa Bay in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which have left a significant impact on the local animal population.
The team, consisting of 13 members, will undertake a 15-hour, 1,000-mile journey to provide much-needed disaster relief. They plan to transport nearly 100 pets back to Houston, including 50 cats, 20 rabbits, guinea pigs, and 25 small dogs and puppies, who will be integrated into the Houston SPCA’s adoption program. The team will be equipped with three Sprinter vans and two additional vehicles loaded with crates and supplies, ready to navigate potential challenges such as flooded roads, downed trees, and closed fueling stations as they reach the affected areas.
In addition to rescuing animals, the Houston SPCA aims to assist SPCA Tampa Bay by alleviating the burden of care for the excess animals that have come in due to the hurricanes. The team is expected to return to Houston by Thursday evening, around 8 p.m., with the rescued pets.
Supporting the Houston SPCA
To support the Houston SPCA in their efforts to enhance the welfare of its animals, they are currently seeking donations of essential items, including new or gently used towels and blankets (no pillows or washcloths), newspapers, non-clumping cat litter, pet toys, puppy training pads, sturdy baby playpens, and gently used crates. Additional items needed include xylitol-free peanut butter, canned cheese, bottled water, digital cameras, can openers, hand sanitizer, bleach, batteries, office supplies, large plastic watering cans, paper towels, plastic shower curtain rings, and Ziploc bags. Donations can be dropped off during open hours (daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.) at the Ann Slemons Young Adoption Center, located at 7007 Old Katy Rd, Houston, TX 77024.
Supporters can also contribute by purchasing items from the Houston SPCA’s Amazon wishlist, which allows for direct shipping of essential supplies to the organization. The wishlist can be accessed here. Monetary donations can also be made here.
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Volunteer Opportunities
For those looking to lend a hand, the Houston SPCA offers volunteer opportunities for individuals aged 16 and older. Applicants who are 18 years and older must complete a background screening, which disqualifies those with records of violence against people or animals. Court-ordered community service hours are not accepted. A $40 non-refundable application fee is required for adults, covering the cost of a uniform, insurance, and the background check. After submitting the fee, applicants receive a link to complete their application and screening process, followed by orientation and hands-on training sessions.
Youth volunteers aged 16-17 can apply with a $25 non-refundable fee, and their application process mirrors that of adults. Once approved, volunteers will receive instructions on how to register for training in specific animal care areas, such as Large Dogs, Small Dogs, Cattery, Small Animals, Wildlife, or Equine. To begin the process, visit this website.
Help SPCA Tampa BayIn the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, SPCA Tampa Bay is currently offering pet food and other supplies to those in need who have been impacted by
the storms. To contribute to their relief efforts for the Tampa Bay community, visit spcatampabay.org/hurricane-milton-relief.
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By volunteering or donating, community members can play a crucial role in supporting the Houston SPCA’s mission to care for animals in need, especially during challenging times like these.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
