Briefs

• The Coconino Humane Society in Flagstaff, Arizona, stepped in to save numerous dogs affected by sudden floods in Texas after receiving an urgent request from a shelter that was overwhelmed.

• Initially, one dog showed signs of stress, but has since recovered and is now ready for adoption. Some dogs are already finding new homes, but the shelter is appealing for donations to help care for the remaining 13.

Flagstaff, Arizona – Over 12 dogs have recently been rescued from the chaos caused by flooding in Texas and are currently being cared for by the Coconino Humane Society in northern Arizona.

Despite its limited staff, the shelter acted promptly and agreed to take in the animals after a distress call from a Texas shelter during the flooding.

What we know

Pictures from the Texas floods depict heart-wrenching scenes. While there’s a lot of focus on helping people, Charlotte Peterson, Operations Medical Director at the Coconino Humane Society, emphasized the plight of animals that also need support.

“I think the average household has about 2.5 pets, but that doesn’t include farmers or those with small animals,” Peterson explained. “Sometimes people might not realize just how many animals are out there.”

The Coconino Humane Society is collaborating with the Concho Valley PAWS Shelter in San Angelo, Texas.

Peterson noted a sense of urgency at the Texas shelter to find homes for as many dogs as they could. “Some of the dogs were already there, while others were strays that went unclaimed after the storm,” she said.

Staff from the Coconino Humane Society traveled to meet with transporters heading to New Mexico, marking a long journey for these animals.

“They were in transit for at least 16 hours,” Peterson mentioned.

“They’re all sweet, with no behavioral problems,” she reassured.

However, many of the dogs displayed signs of trauma from their experiences. “They were really stressed out. The first images we received showed them shaking in their kennels,” she recalled.

Fortunately, the fresh mountain air has helped, and Peterson is optimistic that every dog will find a loving home.

“It’s fantastic to see how lively things are among our staff right now. It’s such a turnaround for those poor dogs,” Peterson remarked. “Who knows what they’ve been through? It’s a blessing that they can come to Arizona, dry off, and start their journey to finding new homes.”

Two dogs from Texas, including one named Vincent, are already on their way to adoption, while 13 others are still looking for a family.

What you can do

The Coconino Humane Society is in need of donations like puppy food and bowls for the additional dogs they are caring for.

For more information regarding adoption and donation options, please check their website.