On September 9, 2005, one of the worst hurricanes in history hit New Orleans. This hurricane was called Hurricane Katrina and it swept away thousands of animals. While rescuers were evacuating the state, many pets were left behind. Louisiana and Texas SPCA were among the organizations that contributed in rescuing the pets that were left behind. The rescuers worried about the animals that were locked in houses and had no food or water. Animals were also trapped on roofs and tied to porches. Rescuers had a more difficult time finding cats because the cats would hide under chairs and beds. Organizations also helped to find stranded pets that were left behind. These organizations were not allowed into the most damaged areas until recently. The Humane Society saved about 90 dogs and 34 cats. Some rescuers reported minor abrasion and mild dehydration among some pets. Hundreds of people have traveled north of New Orleans, some 50 miles, in order to continue to look for their stranded pets. Some people eventually found their pets, but others weren’t lucky enough to find theirs.

For what to do during a crisis, click here for our ultimate emergency pet care kit.