CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA, July 1, 2016 — American Humane’s renowned animal rescue team, first responders for animals in crisis for 100 years, has arrived in Charleston with two of the organization’s giant 50-foot rescue vehicles to help animal victims of the historic flooding affecting the area.

The deployment of the emergency vehicles, a team of 10 trained emergency responders and a veterinarian comes at the request of the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association, which is being hard-pressed to find a solution for a growing problem: The shelter has a capacity for 240 animals and is completely full – with more coming in each day.

Among the critical tasks being prepared and performed as needed by the American Humane team are: Conducting a critical assessment of the need; setting up a mobile vet clinic to provide first aid, conduct wellness checks, and administer vaccines; distributing 1,200 pounds of food donated by American Humane; providing critically needed supplies, vaccines and medicines donated by leading animal health company Zoetis; and preparing to relieve overworked staff at the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association shelter. Every attempt will be made to reunify lost animals with their owners.

“Our hearts go out to the people and animals of West Virginia,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane. “Fortunately, our animal rescue team is well-trained and well-qualified to handle this kind of emergency. Help has arrived.”