Jul 5, 2008 3:43 pm US/Central
Abandoned Pets Seek New Homes After Floods
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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Numerous pets were rescued by PAWS Chicago from Midwest areas hit by floods. They are now seeking new homes and owners in the Chicagoland area.
CBS
When Quincy, Ill. And Cedar Rapids, Iowa were ravaged by floods last month, there was a human toll paid in damaged property and lost homes, but there was also a toll exacted on pets.
"The people that lost their homes, they lost everything – they moved in with family, most of them and they can't keep their pets," said PAWS Chicago founder Paula Fasseas.
And in some cases, the pets were left to fend for themselves.
"Many people just abandoned dogs and let them loose," Fasseas said.
Enter PAWS Chicago, which quickly sent two vans into the flood zone to save the animals – one from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and the other from Quincy, Ill.
Saturday, at PAWS Chicago's Adoption Center, more than 30 animals rescued in the wake of the floods were put up for adoption.
Gloria and Greg Tomaino of Chicago came to the center Saturday with their hearts set on adopting a flooded out animal.
"I love dogs, and I can't stand to see them hurt or anything," Tomaino said.
The Tomainos want a small dog and believe a Shih-Tzu or one of its two siblings should make a wonderful addition to their Chicago home. And although the couple was inspired by the story of these canine victims – they say helping the dog will ultimately help themselves.
"It's a two way street," said Greg Tomaino. "We're going to enjoy them too and we help a dog, so we're both gaining."
If you think you'd benefit by taking home a flood dog you can do so Sunday from 11-5 p.m. at PAWS Chicago on North Clybourn.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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