Volusia County Animal Services Awarded $25,000 Grants

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The American Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty (ASPCA) invited disaster response agencies to submit funding requests. Volusia County Animal Services jumped on the opportunity, which awarded the local agency with a $25,000 grant.

According to a release, Animal Services focused on ensuring additional means for safe and secure animal transport and disaster sheltering supplies for people and their pets, procuring 175 wire crates and 45 Ruff Tuff Kennels to aid in disaster response shelters and safe animal transport.

In partnership with Emergency Management and Fire Rescue Services divisions, Volusia County Animal Services provides shelters during declared emergencies where people and pets retreat as a last resort. In 1998, they were the first to open a people and pet-friendly shelter in Florida and currently offer up to 34 sheltering locations for people and their pets during a disaster.

Adam Leath, the Volusia County Animal Services Director, serves as a board member of the National Animal Care and Control Association, where he aids agencies across the country to prepare and respond to animals in need.

“It’s our goal to ensure pets remain with their owners and provide support services to them during disaster events. These funds will have a direct impact on our ability to transport and safely shelter people and their pets during times of need,” Leath said