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Shelters Work To Reunite Pets With Families

Last updated on Wednesday, March 7, 2012

(HENRYVILLE)(RTV6) Days after tornadoes devastated parts of southern Indiana, scared and injured pets that have taken shelter in the rubble are emerging in search of food and water.

The Jeffersonville Animal Shelter has seen a surge in the number of animals that have been separated from their families being brought in by volunteers.

"Today we've seen more of an influx of animals than we've seen I the last few days. I think they are coming out of hiding now," said shelter director Sarah Green.

Wayne Talbot hasn't been able to find 15 of his 22 rescued cats. He's worried they're hurt or too scared to come back to his house that now lies in ruins.

"They were like our kids, like family," he said. "I got hold of one of them and she bit me. I held onto her and wouldn't turn her lose."

Families who lost everything will be able to bring their pets to the Jeffersonville shelter while they put their lives back together again, and injured pets will receive treatment and surgery.

Animal rescue groups have also been gathering food across the state for pets and beyond.

"It's not only for dogs and cats, but horses, cattle, rabbits, chickens, any kind of farm animals. There's a great need for food," said volunteer Trish Roehm.

Lewis Boehlein said his dog, Shadow, hasn't been the same since the tornado rolled through, but he's happy the family is still together.

"Shadow's world is messed up," he said. "He survived the storm between me and my wife in the basement huddled together."

Shelters are working together and using Facebook to post pictures of lost pets in hopes of reuniting them with their families.

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