A partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the county animal shelter is allowing pet owners a place to temporarily house their animals.
SPALDING COUNTY, Ga. — The tornado in Spalding County displaced not only people but their four-legged companions as well.
A partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the county animal shelter is allowing pet owners to have a place to temporarily house their animals.
The Griffin Kennel Club donated a FEMA animal trailer to help pets after disasters. You can help rescue animals displaced by the tornado if their owners are unable to leave them at the shelter.
Mila, a rescue dog, not only protects her puppies, but also their owner.
“He got on the bed and was trying to do everything he could to wake me up. He was touching my face,” Tala Dycus said.
Dycus then saw the tornado headed directly for his home in Griffin.
“I literally jumped on them. I just wanted them to be okay. My two pit bulls and my seven puppies. That was all I cared about,” Dycus said.
Crews had to rescue her from the house. She then was horrified by what she saw outside.
“My barn in the backyard was totally smashed. My car was completely crushed. My dogs have the sweetest souls and I personally couldn’t live without them,” he said.
Dycus is left with nothing but his dogs and doesn’t have to worry about their care as he picks up the pieces of his life.
“It’s heartwarming for me to be able to provide this for them and for these animals here who are new to this world to be able to bring them to a clean shelter and give them the care they need,” said the Spalding County Animal Care and Control Chief. of the Department Tyler White said.
The shelter has taken in 17 dogs and one cat displaced by the tornado, who have pink FEMA stickers on their kennels. White said these resources are for the community to use and are open for more.
“Those are my babies, and all I care about is that they’re in a warm and safe environment,” Dycus said.
That’s what Mila and her seven pups will get, along with Mila’s sister Harley, until Dycus can find new homes for all of them.
“I see these dogs as having saved my life. I am so grateful that they are getting the care they need as we try to restore Griffin back to where he belongs,” she said.
The shelter is also looking for volunteers to help get animals and donations to care for the pets. If you would like to volunteer or those who need to house their animals at the shelter should call: 1(770) 467-4772.