In the aftermath of the devastation left by the tornadoes that ravaged the town of Moore, Oklahoma on May 20th, a group dedicated to the rescue, recovery and aid for pets in need was already en route to the storm sight. “Our supply trucks are on the ground and the Guardians of Rescue volunteers are already in action,” says Robert Misseri, president and founder of Guardians of Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping all animals in need.
Based in New York, and still a vital part of the rescue of animals after Hurricane Sandy, the group wasted no time in coming to the aid of pets and their owners in Oklahoma. “The loss of life, homes and belongings is tragic, and many times the loss of the family pet adds to the grief and pain felt after such an experience. We are here to help minimize the loss, and help those animals find their way back to their family,” says Misseri.
The volunteers of the Guardians of Rescue are busy searching for lost animals, leaving food out for pets in locations that were once their home, trapping, and seeking medical attention for those in need of it. “We are honored to have this opportunity to help the people of Moore, Americans helping Americans in times of need, this is what our country is about,” says Misseri, “We are going to send more volunteers, and work tirelessly to try and bring some relief and happiness to those who have already lost so much.”
The Guardians of Rescue dedicate themselves to the care of abandoned and rescue animals year round, but when disaster strikes, the volunteers head straight to the front, bringing their experience and expertise to an area suffering from all kinds of devastation, but there are also ways for the public to aid in the effort. Here are five ways to help.
1. Volunteer to rescue. For those who like to get in the trenches and be a physical part of what is going on, they can sign up to become a rescue volunteer. They will go out on missions in order to help those animals in need.
2. Send supplies. Those who are taking care of the rescued pets need supplies, such as pet food. Donating pet items, or things that may be used during rescue missions, is always helpful.
3. Become a foster. With so many displaced animals, many need temporary homes until they can be successfully reunited with their families. Those who can open their home up to caring for an animal temporarily are needed.
4. Spread the word. Most people are not aware of the problems that the animal victims of tornadoes have experienced. The more the information gets out about this, the more people that will get involved in helping.
5. Donate funds. Through the animal rescue process there are funds used to locate, rescue, provide medical care, feed, and house the animals. Anyone, anywhere can help with this by making a monetary donation.
The impact of this natural disaster will be felt here in Moore for a long time to come, but with the Guardians of Rescue on the job, you can be sure that our four legged friends will be rescued, fed, cared for and reunited with the families who love them. To learn more, or to make a donation to support the Guardians of Rescue, log onto www.guardiansofrescue.org.