Posted: July 30, 2008, 5 a.m. EDT
Two animal control agencies that were hit by the rising waters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, each received a $10,000 donation for their efforts to care for the displaced cats and dogs during the recent flooding.
The American Kennel Club and AKC Companion Animal Recovery presented a check for $10,000 to the Kirkwood Foundation for the Friends of the Animal Shelter Fund, the non-profit associated with Cedar Rapids Animal Control; and $10,000 to the Friends of the Animal Center, the nonprofit associated with Iowa City Animal Control.
Both organizations were forced to evacuate their facilities and at the same time set up emergency shelter for more than 1,000 homeless pets for a month after the flooding. Cedar Rapids Animal Control and the staff at the Kirkwood facility have reunited displaced dogs with owners, adopted out others, and worked with area shelters and rescue groups to place the animals temporarily housed at Kirkwood Community College, according to the AKC.
Pets rescued by Iowa City Animal Control have been relocated to the agency’s new temporary home. “We’re happy to be able to help them during the flooding in Iowa,” said Lisa Peterson, AKC spokesperson.