Alaqua Animal Refuge Seeks Public Support for Animals Displaced by Hurricane Milton Despite National Assistance

Alaqua Animal Refuge is urgently seeking public support to continue providing life-saving care for animals displaced by Hurricane Milton. While national animal welfare organizations have stepped in with emergency grants, food, and bedding, Alaqua remains in critical need of monetary donations, volunteers, fosters, and adopters to sustain the ongoing care for these animals.

As the designated emergency shelter for Hurricane Milton, Alaqua quickly mobilized to meet the needs of displaced animals, even before state supplies could arrive. The refuge sourced kennels, food, and medical supplies from a three-hour radius, ensuring every incoming animal had the shelter and care they needed.

Thanks to the generosity of national and local organizations, Alaqua received emergency grants and supplies. However, the sheer volume of animals—many of them in dire condition—has placed an enormous strain on the refuge’s resources. The animals are currently housed in two large emergency arenas, and many are suffering from severe health conditions, including heartworm disease, malnutrition, untreated injuries, broken bones, and behavioral trauma from the storm.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the national support we’ve received, but the reality is we still need significant help from our community,” said Laurie Hood, Founder and CEO of Alaqua Animal Refuge. “The animals need long-term care, and for that, we need monetary donations, more volunteers to assist with daily care, foster homes, and adopters willing to take in these special animals.”

How You Can Help:

• Monetary Donations: These are our most pressing need to cover ongoing medical treatments, food, and operational costs. Donate at www.alaqua.org

• Volunteer: Help with animal care, feeding, and support at our emergency facilities.

• Foster or Adopt: We need foster homes to relieve the overcrowding and give animals a loving environment to recover.

• Spread the Word: Share Alaqua’s story on social media and encourage others to get involved.

“These animals have been through so much, and while we’ve made strides in stabilizing them, we need the community’s support to continue their care and find them forever homes,” Hood added.

For more information on how to donate, volunteer, foster, or adopt, visit www.alaqua.org or contact Alaqua Animal Refuge at 850-880-6399.