WASHINGTON – The Humane Society of the United States' Disaster Services Team today is ending its efforts to assist with caring for a large number of animals left homeless after a fire destroyed a home in Cochecton, NY on Tuesday, May 23.
"The Sullivan County SPCA requested assistance from The Humane Society of the United States after it became apparent that the magnitude of this incident exceeded their capabilities," said Randy Covey, HSUS director of disaster services. "We immediately deployed personnel and equipment from the Washington area and arrived on site Wednesday evening."
As a result of the fire, 14 dogs and 34 cats died, according to a situation report filed Wednesday by Jeff Eyre, HSUS director of field rescue response. Eyre led a team of three HSUS responders. An initial assessment of the condition of the animals indicated that 14 of the surviving cats suffered minor injuries. A mother cat and two kittens were moved to The HSUS Operations Trailer.
The remaining animals – 54 dogs and 85 cats - are being housed in outbuildings on the property. Eyre reports that most of the animals are in fair condition.
The HSUS has provided tarps to provide cover for the animals and a generator to supply power to the property.
The house was destroyed in the fire. The owner, Gloria Smith, has cooperated with The HSUS and the Sullivan County SPCA. Representatives of the groups are urging Smith to reduce the number of animals she houses on the property.
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization representing more than 9.5 million members and constituents. The non-profit organization is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research, equine protection and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy, and field work. The group is based in Washington and has numerous field representatives across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.
