Galveston County Receives Donation of AKC Pet Disaster Relief Trailer

AKC Reunite, the largest non-profit pet identification and recovery service provider in the United States, is pleased to announce the donation of its 108th AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailer in Dickinson, TX in Galveston County. This life-saving equipment will be available to dispatch to any local disaster scene that needs assistance sheltering pets. This trailer was delivered on November 30th and will assist Bayou Animal Services in helping community pets that may become displaced in an emergency.

“We are happy to see our 108th trailer going to Dickinson, TX” said Tom Sharp, President & CEO of AKC Reunite. “With high potential of hurricanes and other disasters in the area, this equipment will be ready when needed to help the residents and their pets.”

“We are proud to have contributed to the acquisition of the AKC Reunite Pet Disaster Relief Trailer which will provide refuge and care for the many dogs that might be affected by unexpected disasters.”

Brenda Weitzel ~ Treasurer for the NACDA

AKC Pet Disaster Relief is a nationwide program sponsored by AKC Reunite, the country’s largest non-profit microchip identification and recovery service. AKC Reunite partners with AKC® Dog Clubs and pet lovers across the country to make these donations a reality. Galveston County trailer was made possible by the NASA Area Companion Dog Agility Club (NACDA), Southeast Texas Agility Club, Bayou Friends Forever, McRee Ford and the City of Dickinson.

“NASA Area Companion Dog Association promotes all types of care for dogs in Dickinson Texas and the surrounding area,” said Brenda Weitzel, Treasurer for the NACDA. “We are proud to have contributed to the acquisition of the AKC Reunite Pet Disaster Relief Trailer which will provide refuge and care for the many dogs that might be affected by unexpected disasters.”

“It’s true that pets are an integral part of many families, and it’s crucial to ensure their safety during challenging times,” said Nina Baker, Shelter Manager for Bayou Animal Services. “By investing in lifesaving equipment, the community has taken a significant step towards protecting the lives of these beloved furry friends. It’s also worth noting that such equipment is a testament to the kindness and compassion of the community members who value the lives of all creatures, great and small.”

The equipment in the AKC Pet Disaster Relief trailers helps to create a safe, temporary home-base for at least 65 pets during the first 72 hours after a disaster is declared. The trailers house and deliver essential animal care items including crates and carriers, AKC Reunite microchips and an AKC Reunite universal microchip scanner, bowls, collars and leashes as well as fans, lighting and a generator, cleaning supplies and maintenance items. These supplies can be used as co-location shelters, where people can evacuate with their pets, as well as emergency animal shelters for displaced animals.

“Many pets and their owners were separated or were in need of essential supplies after the devastation from Hurricane Harvey,” said Lori Scimeca, Member of the South Texas Agility Club. “With the introduction of the Pet Disaster Relief trailer, our aim is to prevent such circumstances from occurring in the future. We extend our sincere gratitude to the American Kennel Club and all the generous donors for supporting this pivotal project.”

Learn more about how to get involved online with AKC Pet Disaster Relief or contact us at 919-816-3980 and relief@akcreunite.org.