This browser does not support the Video element.
Nearly 2 dozen dogs rescued from storm
More than 20 dogs rescued from the path of Hurricane Isaias are now safe in the Bay Area. FOX 13’s Heather Healy reports.
BRADENTON, Fla. - A late-night emergency rescue operation brought 22 dogs to safety in Bradenton after staff members rushed into the path of Hurricane Isaias to evacuate vulnerable animals.
Bradenton animal shelter rescue
What we know:
Late Friday night, 22 dogs arrived at Nate's Honor Animal Rescue in Bradenton. Staff members worked late into the night, with some even reporting on their day off, to triage and care for the new arrivals.
Most of the rescued dogs are seniors or require special medical attention. Among them is Betty White, a completely blind dog who is already doing well and wagging her tail in safe hands.
Hurricane Isaias shelter evacuation
The backstory:
The University of Florida’s Shelter Medicine Program put out an urgent call for help Friday morning. They asked partner facilities to take in animals from shelters in the storm's crosshairs, including one facility with outdoor kennels.
One dedicated Nate’s staff member immediately stepped up to drive straight into the storm's path. The high-stakes effort came together in a matter of hours.
Dangerous drive through severe weather
What they're saying:
The journey involved significant weather challenges as the staff member raced back to Bradenton just as Hurricane Isaias made landfall.
"He was driving back with some tornado warnings and severe weather alert, so he actually went a little bit out of his way," said Michaela Oglesby, the medical director for Nate's Honor Animal Rescue, calling it the ultimate team effort to put the dogs' needs first.
Medical care and fundraiser
What's next:
The pups are now receiving necessary medical care and treatment. Rescue officials expect them to be ready for adoption or foster care within the next couple of weeks.
In the meantime, a fundraiser is underway to help cover their medical expenses, which has already raised more than $2,000.
Shelter adoption status details
What we don't know:
Rescue officials have not yet specified exact adoption dates or specific application guidelines for individual dogs.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered from Nate's Honor Animal Rescue Medical Director Michaela Oglesby, as well as official details provided by Nate's Honor Animal Rescue.