'One less thing to worry about': Around 130 cats and dogs airlifted from flood-stricken Texas; disaster's scale continues to grow

Amid the deadly flooding in central Texas, animal rescue groups are working tirelessly to shelter displaced pets, relocate them, and ensure their safety until they can be reunited with their families.

Marc Peralta, chief program officer at Best Friends Animal Society, quoted ABC News, said, “When the floods occurred, we knew right away from other emergency response situations, such as the fires in Los Angeles, that we have shelters that are full of animals and what we are going to need in any event like this was to make room for displaced pets, lost pets and provide that relief for families that are already going through complete tumultuous situations to maybe have one less thing to worry about.”

In response to the crisis, Best Friends Animal Society and its partners airlifted around 130 cats and dogs, allowing them to take shelter in the community, stay safe, and, hopefully, reunite with their families.

Peralta explained that the organization is equipped to accommodate pets for extended stays during emergencies. However, if reunification is not possible, the pets can eventually be put up for adoption.

“Just like any pet in a shelter, they can go up for adoption. But a lot of times if situations like this occur, we will extend wait periods just to make sure that we are giving ample amount of time because we always want them to go back home first, especially if we know they are stranded or lost,” he said.

Many of the local partner organizations are working directly in the flood-affected areas. They rely heavily on donations and have created online wish lists for those who wish to support the shelters by purchasing needed supplies.

“Just like for people, we're just kind of scratching the surface in understanding what the actual devastation is for animals in the area as well,” said Peralta.

The scale of the disaster continues to grow. According to the Associated Press, at least 120 people have died in the flash floods, and more than 170 remain missing. The search for victims continues, though efforts are hampered by vast stretches of rubble and overflowing rivers.