Tuesday, September 12, 2017 – Sarasota, FL – Following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, Cat Depot’s Adoption Center and Supply & Gift Store will open to the public on Wednesday, September 13 beginning at 11 a.m. The Rose Durham Cat Care Clinic will open beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Four days before Hurricane Irma affected the area, Cat Depot began its preparations. Staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to put together carriers, stock food, water, and supplies, and prepare the shelter for potential damages sustained from flooding and high winds.
Cat Depot’s disaster preparedness plan has been in place since 2011, however this is the first time it has had to be implemented. The plan includes three parts – a) evacuation of the shelter’s cats to a safer location; b) sheltering in place; and c) assisting the community following a disaster.
To ensure the safety of the cats and kittens in its care, Cat Depot’s Emergency Response Team (CDERT), remained onsite before, during, and after the storm. The team consisted of veterinary and cat care staff along with other essential personnel to provide for the cats wellbeing throughout the storm.
CDERT is awaiting to hear from the Florida State Animal Response Coalition (FLSARC), American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) on how it can best render aid to affected areas.
Cat Depot currently has more than 150 animals in its care including 30 cats and kittens evacuated from the Jacksonville Humane Society. Many more animals will need help in the aftermath of the hurricane. If you wish to help Cat Depot care for these animals today and in the days and weeks ahead as our community recovers from Hurricane Irma, please donate at www.catdepot.org. All donations of $25 or more made now through September 20 will be doubled as part of Cat Depot’s Help Meowt Challenge.
About Cat Depot
Cat Depot, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) no-kill, free-roaming facility, is recognized for its progressive design and commitment to helping homeless, abandoned and injured animals. Cat Depot’s mission is to save lives, find loving homes, and provide the resources and education to improve the destiny of homeless cats. Cat Depot supports more than 130 cats and kittens on any given day.
Open Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Handicap accessible. Cat Depot located at 2542 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34234.
For more information, visit www.catdepot.org.