The Jacksonville Humane Society (JHS) is seeking families who can temporarily care for dogs and cats while Hurricane Ian passes.
We are asking families to serve as “Storm Troopers” and host an adoptable dog or cat for a sleepover until at least Monday, October 3rd. This is a great opportunity for our pets to ride out the storm with a family inside a cozy home instead of at the shelter.
Those interested are asked to stop by JHS, 8464 Beach Blvd., anytime during our open hours of 12 pm to 7 pm Wednesday, September 28th, to pick up a pet.
If there are still pets in need of Storm Troopers after Wednesday, we will also be open from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 29.
JHS plans to reopen for normal business hours on Friday, September 30, pending the storm.
JHS staff members and volunteers will assist you in selecting an animal to best fit into your home. Supplies will be provided while they last. Storm Trooper families are encouraged to spoil their sleepover guests and share pictures on social media using #JHSStormTrooper. Of course, if you fall in love you are welcome to adopt.
Studies have shown that even a small break from a shelter setting can provide multiple benefits such as stress relief for homeless pets. According to a study done by Arizona State University, “Stress hormone levels were reduced during one- and two-night sleepovers and dogs also rested more during and immediately following a sleepover.”
Additionally, these temporary volunteers can gather information about how the pet behaves in the home to help with the adoption process.
“There’s no better way to ride out a scary storm than with a loving family,” said Denise Deisler, JHS CEO. “We are grateful that we can always count on the compassion of the Jacksonville community.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
What type of pets are available?
Where do I go?
Head to our Adoption, Education, and Pet Help Center, located at 8464 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32216. Come through the “Adoption and Education” entrance. Tell the front desk that you want to help and a team member will assist you! Our hours will be 12 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, September 28, and 12 pm to 4 pm on Thursday, September 29.
What if I have other pets at home?
Our team will help you find a pet who is the best fit, but we do recommend that you keep pets separated if at all possible, just to reduce the stress on the new pet and your existing ones.
What if I have children?
We do not always know how an animal will behave with children. We will share all the information that we have with you prior to taking a pet home. We have a wide variety of pets available, so we suggest you come to meet them all!
What supplies are provided?
We will provide food for dogs and cats. Cats will also receive a foil litter pan and litter. We have some leashes and collars but it would be a big help if you can bring your own!
I can’t foster. How else can I help?
A wonderful way to help at this time would be to send in a donation from our wishlists or donate pet food to our pet food bank for community members in need.