When the call came from Calhoun County, there was no time to prepare.
There was no fundraising campaign already in place. No emergency budget waiting on a shelf. No guarantee that we had the resources needed for what we were about to face.
There were simply animals in desperate need.
Over the course of three days, Alaqua Animal Refuge helped rescue 85 animals from one of the most heartbreaking cruelty situations we have encountered. Dogs, cats, rabbits, goats, chickens, a horse, a donkey, and wolf hybrids were found living in conditions that no animal should ever have to endure.
Many required immediate medical attention. All needed food, shelter, and a safe place to begin healing.
The truth is that cases like this place an enormous burden on animal welfare organizations. The cost of emergency response, transportation, veterinary care, housing, feed, medications, and rehabilitation begins the moment we say yes, and continues for months long after the headlines fade.
Yet saying yes was never a question.
Because when animals are suffering, someone has to step forward.
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Alaqua was able to answer that call. And because animal cruelty does not wait, we must always be prepared for the next one.
If you believe every animal deserves a second chance, please consider making a donation today. Your support allows us to respond immediately when animals have nowhere else to turn.
Every rescue begins with a yes.
Every yes begins with people like you.