As Hurricane Milton approaches the coast, the Humane Society of Broward County is working to ensure no pet is left behind. Volunteers are on the ground in Manatee County, preparing to evacuate dozens of animals in need of shelter and care.
In a concerted effort to quickly and effectively transport the animals, the Broward team has taken enough crates to rescue eight dogs and 29 cats, as per a statement obtained by WSVN. The destination is the Humane Society's facility in Fort Lauderdale, where all rescued pets will be in need of new, loving homes.
The initiative comes as part of a larger organized response within the state. A cooperative movement is unfolding, with an announcement by the University of Florida that brought together over 150 shelter organizers in a collective call for action. Facilities in need, like the one in Manatee County, are being paired with willing aid providers, including the Broward Humane Society, whose preparations have been noted by local media outlets.
Mary Steffen, the Director of Operations at the Broward Humane Society, stressed the importance of community support, telling NBC Miami, "I have to believe our community more than any understands–adopt, don’t shop. I think we had about 55 adoptions this weekend. We were really super busy, so we are so blessed and so lucky," and he emphasized the need for these adoptions to maintain the flow of animals.
The Broward County shelter remains open for adoptions seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
