AKC rounds up help for hurricane victims

New York - 9/03/05 - In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and its affiliate AKC Companion Animal Recovery are offering relief to animals and rescue workers.

AKC reports it's working closely with the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Houston Kennel Club and the Florida Association of Kennel Clubs to determine where shelters and staging areas will be established so supplies and assistance can be provided. An initial shipment of supplies has been sent to Louisiana State University's veterinary school, which is working to house and treat displaced and injured animals.

"Notwithstanding the human tragedy and untold billions of dollars in damage, we expect there are untold numbers of canine victims that are in desperate need of our assistance," says Dennis B. Sprung, AKC President and CEO, in a prepared statement.

Shelters and individuals in need of assistance are urged to contact AKC at seekhelp@akc.org or call (800) 252-7894. The group is accepting monetary donations, which can be mailed to AKC/CAR Canine Support and Relief Fund at the American Kennel Club, 260 Madison Ave. 4th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10016-2401. The tax-deductible donations are used to immediately purchase equipment and supplies for needed areas, AKC reports.

See DVM Newsmagazine's October issue for comprehensive coverage on the storm's aftermath.