The Susquehanna SPCA remains committed to helping those in the South still facing challenges after Hurricane Helene. This week, they received a call from the BISSELL Pet Foundation, who reached out to see if the SQSPCA could assist again following a recent pet transfer from Tennessee. Stacie Haynes, Executive Director, shared, “Last Tuesday, we launched a dog adoption special with waived fees. Luckily, this opened up shelter space just as BISSELL contacted us.”

On Friday evening, the SQSPCA team arrived at the Binghamton Aviation Services FBO to greet 9 dogs and 3 cats flown in from hurricane-impacted shelters in Western North Carolina. This life-saving rescue was orchestrated by BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Animal Incident Management (AIM) team, who coordinated and funded the pets' flight. The transport was made possible with the help of Pilots to the Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to flying pets to safe locations, helping them find new, loving homes.

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The pets rescued had been either adoptable in shelters before the hurricane or recently surrendered by owners affected by the storm. By relocating these animals, the shelters in North Carolina can now accommodate additional animals who need urgent care, allowing local staff time to focus on recovery efforts.

“We’re heartbroken by the devastation from Hurricane Helene and grateful we can support these overwhelmed shelters and the pets in need,” said Haynes. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to BISSELL Pet Foundation and Pilots to the Rescue for making this rescue possible.”

The newly arrived dogs, from Shih Tzus to Anatolian Shepherds, will be available for adoption starting Saturday, October 26. Each has a unique personality and is ready for a loving home.

“We invite everyone to come by on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to meet our adoptable pets,” said Haynes. “All dog adoption fees are waived through Saturday, and cat adoptions are two for one through the end of October.”

Those interested in viewing adoptable pets online can visit www.sqspca.org, though the latest arrivals may not yet appear on the website, making in-person visits the best option. The SQSPCA also welcomes contributions to help maximize their positive impact on pets’ lives. Donations can be made at www.sqspca.org/donate.

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