Disasters strike with a force that is hard to imagine until they hit our communities. In Western North Carolina (WNC), many are experiencing this firsthand. The lives of our family, friends, and neighbors have been uprooted. They have lost homes and belongings, and many still lack basic necessities. When people’s lives are impacted, so are the lives of beloved pets and animals.
Animals, especially those separated from their families or in damaged shelters, are particularly vulnerable in these situations. At Off Leash Dog Training, a company serving Charlotte since 2007, we understand the deep bond between humans and their pets. “Our Dogs Are Family” is more than just a motto; it’s a core value. That’s why we are committed to helping the animals affected by this disaster.
Here are some ways you can help:
- Donate: Many WNC shelters have indicated that they desperately need financial assistance. A monetary donation, large or small, can help provide food, medical care, and shelter for displaced pets.
- Donate Supplies: Shelters often need essential items like pet food (both dog and cat), leashes, crates, bedding, and toys. Check the list below for their most pressing needs.
- Volunteer: If you have time and skills, shelters can often use help with everything from walking and playing with animals to cleaning kennels and assisting with adoptions.
- Spread the Word: Use your social media channels to share information about shelters in need and ways people can help. This can dramatically increase awareness and support.
- Consider Fostering: If you have the space and resources, fostering a displaced pet can ease the burden on overwhelmed shelters and provide a loving temporary home for an animal in need.
For more specific needs, please see the list below:
- Asheville Humane Society, Asheville, NC https://www.ashevillehumane.org/donate/other-ways-to-give/
- Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Asheville, NC https://secure.qgiv.com/for/rebuildbw
- Yancey Humane Society, Burnsville, NC https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=8AVWSPM2MUPBN&ssrt=1727979865320
- Mountain Pet Rescue, Asheville, NC https://www.mountainpetrescueavl.org/donate/
- Transylvania Animal Alliance Group, Brevard, NC https://www.taagwags.org/donate
- Blue Ridge Humane Society, Hendersonville, NC https://www.blueridgehumane.org/donate/
- Charlies Angels Animal Rescue, Fletcher, NC, https://charliesangelsanimalrescue.com/donate/
- Bissell Pet Foundation, https://www.bissellpetfoundation.org/donate-crisis/
- Best Friends, https://bestfriends.org/hurricane-helene
In Charlotte:
Hurricane Helene Supply Drive 10/3/24, 7AM-7PM Truist Field – Pet Food Needed (Cats & Dogs), https://www.milb.com/charlotte-knights
Charlotte Humane Society, Through October 5th, Empty the Shelter – All adoptions are 50% off to clear space for pets coming in from Hurricane Helene-affected areas. https://humanesocietyofcharlotte.org/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=brand&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwgfm3BhBeEiwAFfxrG7N5PX8wOEHKi30VFFf7RhJeQn79Wbtcmt-znE6leerV4n8-8DZS0BoC1QQQAvD_BwE
** Also, please be cautious and do not fall for scams as they occur.
