9 Dogs Displace By Hurricane Florence Now In Burlington County

The Burlington County Animal Shelter has taken in nine dogs that were displaced by Hurricane Florence in North Carolina, county officials announced. It is also asking residents to help the shelter in its disaster relief efforts. All nine dogs were in a shelter in North Carolina, and were up for adoption. Veterinarians are now examining the dogs, who will be up for adoption in the near future.

“From our dedicated staff and volunteers at the shelter, to the compassionate residents who have adopted one of our animals, we have an incredible community in Burlington County and are pleased to once again do a small part to assist in disaster recovery efforts,” said Burlington County Freeholder Director Kate Gibbs, who adopted her dog Fitz from the county shelter. “I look forward to helping these dogs and all of our animals find new forever homes.”

It is the second straight year the Burlington County Animal Shelter has taken in animals that were displaced by a natural disaster in another state. Last year, took in 10 dogs from Texas and 23 from Puerto Rico that were displaced by Hurricanes Harvey and Maria, respectively.

This year, the shelter made preparations ahead of time in the event Hurricane Florence did displace any animals. It had a designated space ready in the event it was asked to take in displaced animals, according to county officials.

“It was an incredibly rewarding experience to witness the overwhelming support our shelter received last year, which helped those dogs find forever homes in Burlington County,” Gibbs said. “One of the added benefits of expanding our shelter is that we now have additional capacity to take part in recovery efforts, while maintaining all of the care our local animals need.”

Last fall, the county unveiled its highly-anticipated 2,400 square-foot shelter expansion. The new facility features user-friendly electronic displays, three new community cat rooms that hold up to 10 felines and allow them to get out of their cages and interact with one another, upgraded dog runs, and a pet drop-off office.

Prospective adopters are now able to meet animals in separate “greeting rooms”, meant to reduce the stress level for animals, giving visitors a more personal interaction. Following last year’s expansion, a record 4,174 animals adopted, rescued or reunited with their owner.

The Burlington County Animal Shelter is located at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton, behind the Burlington County Library. The shelter is open fromnoon to 4 p.m. every day, except Thursday’s when it is open from noon to 7 p.m.

For more information about the shelter or to inquire about the North Carolina dogs, residents may call 609-265-5073 or visit http://co.burlington.nj.us/168/Animal-Shelter.

Patch file photo