Written by Brian Murnahan, American Red Cross Public Affairs
KISSIMMEE, Fl. - Hurricane Ian came through Florida without regard to property, people and certainly not our furry children. As people evacuated, they grabbed their most valuable possessions and ensured that they had their pets in hand and on leash. Judy Saunders was no different: her dog, Nina, came right along with her as she was rescued.
Saunders had gone to sleep Wednesday night knowing Hurricane Ian was coming, but not thinking her home would end up flooded in two feet of water. “I woke up and put my feet down and found the water up my mattress,” said Saunders.
“When I woke up, I fell down into the water. I had broken my wrist in early September, so it was really hard for me to get up. I’m supposed to have my wrist surgery to fix it again in November.
“Nina and I were rescued by a fireman and good Samaritan. I couldn’t get out with the water pushing on the door. All that happened was more water came inside. The men each got on one side of me and helped us to safety.”
According to the Osceola County Office of Emergency Management, 15 inches of rain and 70 mph wind gusts were reported in the county as Hurricane Ian came through.
On Saturday, Saunders arrived at the Kissimmee Civic Center with 14-year-old Nina in hand and was pleased to be able to take her out to some grass outside, where the two could enjoy the clear beautiful day together. After Nina had her time in the sun, Saunders was able to sign Nina back in with Osceola County Animal Services.
“Nina had to swim when we were at home, and I don’t think liked it. Her hips have troubles and she’s a little thick,” said Saunders of Nina.
The American Red Cross with the help of the Osceola County Animal Services is offering pet-friendly shelters in Osceola County. The Kissimmee Civic Center had dogs and cats from large to small in a private room where they were they were easily available to their parents. The pets are still able to go for walks and see their parents in the shelter hall.
“The Red Cross shelter has been a godsend. The Red Cross cares and is taking good care of us. They provide food, clothes and anything we need,” said Saunders. “The volunteers take their time and answer every question, and if there is an issue, they find a solution that helps us.”
