Alaqua Animal Refuge’s ‘Animal Rescue Team’ recently assisted the Liberty County
Sheriff’s Office (FL) by accompanying them to several animal-related
cases, resulting in the rescue of 29 animals that were in dire need.
The animals consisted of 28 dogs and puppies, including several visibly pregnant dogs and one cat. All of the animals, from a total of three locations, were surrendered over to Alaqua for immediate evaluation and care. The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office will determine if charges will be filed on any of the cases.
“Our organization stays at full capacity all of the time, but when we get a request from a county like Liberty, who is reaching out for assistance, we always try to help,” said Laurie Hood, Alaqua founder. “We set up our emergency shelter to accommodate the overflow at the Refuge.”
Liberty County is one of the many counties in Florida without an animal shelter or even animal control. “It’s a tough situation all the way around, as there are just no options for animals in situations like these or for owners of animals who have no place that can help them. Without available medical care, spay and neuter services, or a shelter to take in a stray animal, life for these animals is a grim existence. It’s a long way for us to go, but looking into the eyes of these animals we know it was the right thing to do,” says Hood.Back at the Refuge, Alaqua’s dedicated team was ready to receive the animals, who all received an examination by the staff veterinary team. The animals will be quarantined and medically tested, spayed or neutered, and microchipped before being put up for adoption.
Cases like these put a tremendous strain on the Refuge, who relies on donations to stay afloat. It’s a long process to get animals like these ready to find homes, so donations are always needed. Please consider making a donation or find out about other ways to help by clicking here: http://bit.ly/safc20
About Alaqua Animal Refuge
Alaqua Animal Refuge is a no-kill animal shelter and sanctuary, located in the panhandle of Florida. As the Southeast’s premier no-kill 501(c)3 refuge and sanctuary, Alaqua believes that every abused, neglected and homeless animal deserves a second chance. Committed to providing protection, shelter and care to animals in need, this private, non-profit Refuge also offers a full-service adoption center, educational outreach, and community programs that extend far beyond their geographic location. Since its inception in 2007, Alaqua has become a recognized leader in animal rescue, welfare, cruelty prevention, and advocacy. Alaqua is currently in the midst of a relocation and expansion capital campaign to build a one-of-a-kind facility—the first in the United States—on 100 donated acres. The new facility and sanctuary will allow Alaqua to continue all of the important work that is done now, as well as be an educational and training center to empower others to help animals and recreate the model worldwide. To learn more, visit www.Alaqua.org
