Airline laid on a special flight to rescue puppies from Hurricane Harvey
More than 60 pets were rescued from animal shelters following Hurricane Harvey by Southwest Airlines.
The devastating hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Jose pose a threat to animals as well, with families often leaving their homes at very short notice.
Southwest Airlines rescued the animals in an what they called "Operation Pets Alive", the Independent reported.
The pets were taken from Houston to San Diego where they will be found new homes with the help of the Helen Woodward Animal Centre.
Needless to say, this was one furry rescue flight, with plenty of love to go around! pic.twitter.com/mtBuDBGDw1
— Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) September 6, 2017
"The devastation of Hurricane Harvey has impacted a number of our communities along the Gulf. Our hearts are with our Customers, Employees, family and friends who have experienced loss and devastation from the storm," said Linda Rutherford, the airline's spokesman.
In Miami Dade, the local authority has turned a school into a dedicated pet shelter.
Families are able to leave their animals at the school before going to a refuge of their own.
They acted after other shelters said they were unable to find room for families and their pets.
Elsewhere some dog owners have abandoned their pets, in some cases dogs have been left tethered to trees where they will be unlikely to survive.
