EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE ACTIVITIES -
- Hurricanes Luis and Marylin created havoc in Antigua and Barbuda, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and Culebra islands during the early autumn of 1995. As a result, animal food was in short supply. In addition, thousands of animals died or were abandoned by their owners. Through the contributions of Pan Am Grains, Inc. and Master Distributors, Inc. of San Juan, the FOUNDATION sent more than 28,000 pounds of animal food for dogs, cats, horses, pigs, birds and cows. Through the FOUNDATION's efforts, the American Humane Association was able to get American Airlines to provide free transport to Washington D.C. for ten dogs and cats rescued from St. Thomas when the Humane Society Shelter there was destroyed by the Hurricane winds. The pets were sent to the US for adoption.
- The FOUNDATION has begun a new initiative with the Puerto Rico Civil Defense to establish ANIMAL AWARENESS GROUPS in each of the 78 Municipalities. In addition, the Civil Defense will appoint one person from their local community level patrols to be responsible for animal related matters during emergency situations. These personnel will be trained through sessions offered by the American Humane Association and will interface with existing animal welfare groups in Puerto Rico. The program will prepare persons at the community level to deal with animal emergencies and provide an already existing communications system for the general populace to channel their animal welfare concerns. In addition, the close relationship between the Civil Defense and the local Mayors will improve the climate in which new animal welfare initiatives can develop.
- Once again, in September 1996, another Hurricane struck Puerto Rico. This one was called Hortense and it crossed over the southwest corner causing significant flooding and damage throughout the entire Island with once again many animals being affected. Over 700 head of cattle died and food supplies were once again in short supply. The Foundation obtained help from the ASPCA in New York which shipped over 5 tons of canned cat and dog food while the AHA working with KalKan and the local distributor, Master Foods Inc., arranged for another 5 tons of dry cat and dog food. The food was distributed to needy animal welfare groups and individuals throughout Puerto Rico.