Dear Lucky Dog Family,

It's hard to imagine that a little more than a week ago we were going about our business planning regular transports and adoptions while Hurricane Laura was just a gathering storm in the Gulf of Mexico. Then, with less than 24 hours notice, we were preparing for an evacuation flight with the Petco Foundation and Wings of Rescue, bringing animals in from Texas in advance of the hurricane. And, then today we brought in our first two transports of post-storm evacuations.  

Our Lucky Dog team never ceases to amaze me with its ability to quickly pivot and spring into action. Taking in animals on a moment's notice without the benefit of having a shelter facility to serve as a gateway to intakes is an incredible feat. To accomplish this, more than 40 foster parents stepped up with less than a day's notice to help these animals; to ensure they had a safe place to land in the DC area.  

It's hard to put into words the importance of the disaster relief work we do. Hard to imagine how truly terrifying it is to be facing a hurricane landfall with 100+ mph winds. Is it worse or better to be a human who understands what is happening? Or to be a helpless dog or cat who has no idea what is coming or how to survive it?

On the ground, you rush to do everything you possibly can to prepare. For many animal welfare organizations, that means getting the dogs and cats out. Get them out of the shelter. Out of harm's way. Then the humans can focus on preparing their own safety plan. And, after the storm, they can be ready to clean up. To pick up the pieces after the storm. 

Lucky Dog -- and YOU -- make that possible.

Mirah Horowitz
Executive Director and Founder
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue

P.S. Check our Saturday's FOX News coverage of our hurricane relief efforts.

August Lucky Tails By The Numbers! 

Last month, Lucky Dog saved 372 dogs & cats from high-kill shelters AND found homes for 336 dogs and cats! THANK YOU to all our amazing volunteers who helped so many happy tails come true!

Volunteer Spotlight: Eleanor Castro -- Cat Adoption Coordinator and Foster

My first year in college, I realized pretty quickly that I needed animals in my life. As soon as I found the Lucky Dog website, I was head over heels. I helped out as a dog handler for a few events but really hit my stride when I met our amazing cat team, where I now work as an AC and a foster. Lucky Dog has been so much more than a volunteer position—it really feels like a big family. I’m so encouraged by the people (and animals!) around me and I look forward to many more years of livesaving fun with Lucky Dog!

Share the Luck: Hoku and Mum!

Meet Hoku: Hoku is a 3-year old lab mix looking for love. A sweet, gentle and very shy boy, Hoku has some slight muscle atrophy from previous neglect but is getting stronger every day and loves taking long walks and getting ear scratches and belly rubs. Because of his shyness, he is looking for a home with a confident resident dog to show him the ropes.

Meet Mum: As her name suggests, Mum is a loving momma cat looking for her forever home now that her kittens are all adopted. A 2-year old tortoiseshell mix, she enjoys pouncing on toys, lounging in the sun, and getting pets from her humans. A playful and curious cat, she will make a great addition to any family.

This Month On The Lucky Dog Blog:

Lucky Dog Volunteer Liaison, Foster, Adopter and Contract Volunteer Kami Fitzpatrick shares the story of her journey into rescue.

Trainer's Corner:

As our communities open back up, it is important to practice behaviors that will help prevent separation anxiety in our pets and help our animals adjust to their new routines. Check out this article for tips and tricks from Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.

Pet Health and Safety:

Emergencies come in many forms, and the best thing to do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared. Above please find a helpful guidance to keep your family and pets safe, and most importantly always remember to take your pets with you if you need to evacuate.