Grant From Rachael Ray Sets Up Shelter For NYC Pets Displaced By Sandy
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A $500,000 grant from celebrity chef Rachael Ray has made it possible for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to set up a shelter for pets displaced by Superstorm Sandy.
The 20,000-square-foot shelter opened Saturday in a vacant warehouse at 1508 Herkheimer St., in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn. It will be open seven day a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The ASPCA set up the shelter in conjunction with Animal Care & Control of New York City and other city agencies, as well as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Veterinary Response team.
"We recognize the great need to help pet owners during this difficult time by temporarily caring for their animals while they get back on their feet," ASPCA Field Investigations and Response senior director Tim Rickey said in a news release. "The ASPCA is working with local and national animal welfare agencies to assist animals affected by the storm, and we're grateful to have these valued partners helping us manage the emergency boarding facility and provide relief for both people and pets alike."
Pet owners who bring their pets to the facility also need to bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of address. The ASPCA asked that owners have their pets wearing identification tags in a carrier or crate, and that the owners bring vaccination records and medications as needed.
The $500,000 donation was made possible by the sale of Ray's Nutrish pet food brand. In addition, Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, which manufactures Nutrish, has donated four tons of wet and dry dog food to distribute to the pets at the shelter.
Those who need to bring their pets to the facility should call the Hurricane Sandy Pet Hotline, at Hurricane Sandy pet hotline (347) 573-1561.
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