Help TN Wildlife, Pets, and Livestock
List of organizations that need your help to help animals injured or displaced from Smoky Mountain wildfires
For weeks we’ve been watching the South burn. Wildfires in Georgia, North & South Carolina and Tennessee have been charring and choking our beloved mountain forests. Unusually dry weather and high winds have turned smaller brush fires into raging infernos and sent blankets of smoke into towns over a hundred miles away.
Some of these were started by accident and others were intentionally set. Although fire is a natural occurrence, and many forests benefit from occasional burns, these particular fires were unplanned, unprepared for and definitely uncontrolled.
This was not Nature’s choice.
As we’ve watched the fires spread over the past few weeks, despite fire fighter’s dedicated efforts, we have been heartbroken for the loss of habitat and the tragedy for wildlife. However, the one thing we’ve been thankful for is that these have primarily been limited to wild lands, and haven’t posed any direct threat to towns, dwellings or humans.
Until now.
With hurricane-strength wind gusts pushing the flames, the situation quickly became critical for residents and visitors in Gatlinburg, TN and the surrounding areas this past Monday.
Flames that were licking at the outskirts of town grew in the winds. Trees and power lines fell, creating more fires and more fuel. Buildings were ignited, engulfed, and destroyed. Too many people lost their homes and businesses, many were hurt and some lost their lives. Others are still missing.
And there are also the animals.
Wildlife, pets and livestock endured the flames wherever they were — in the forest, in backyards, in fences, in buildings. We still don’t know how many were injured or killed. Many people are desperately searching for their animals today among the charred embers.
Most of us, especially us Southerners, have made wonderful memories in the hills of our majestic and beloved Smoky Mountains. So it is no surprise that there has been a tremendous outpouring of support for those affected in this tragedy.
It can be overwhelming when trying to decide how to help in a situation like this, but the important thing is that we all get involved. Whether it’s volunteering your time, offering financial assistance, or gathering much needed supplies, every bit of help is crucial.
And although none of us can help every single person or creature affected, all of us can help some — and together our efforts can provide relief for the humans and animals who need our loving hearts and hands now more than ever.
If you would like to help — the citizens, the first responders, or the animals — please visit the links below.
The Knoxville News Sentinel has compiled a wonderful list of ways you can help the people affected:
Another great list can be viewed at WVLT TV — here are places offering shelter for humans and as well as pets and animals:
And the animals. Wildlife rehab facilities and individuals will be providing help for wild animals that have suffered burns or smoke related injuries. The East Tennessee Wildlife Rehabilitation Council has information on how to contact wildlife rehabbers and what their individual supply needs are:
The Sevier County Humane Society has set up an emergency shelter for displaced animals. They graciously accept gifts of food and supplies as well as monetary donations. They are also calling for anyone with animal care experience to volunteer their time.
“Anyone that’s evacuated or been affected by this fire can bring their pet here and know they’ll be taken care of until they get their feet on the ground. If you’re missing your pet, this should be your first stop.”
Many people are frantically searching through charred rubble and smoldering forests for their beloved pets. Here are some photos of missing pets:
A few other organizations that are helping pets, livestock and wildlife. Connect with these individually to learn how you can help:
For up-to-date information on relief efforts, connect with the following Facebook groups:
Groups on Facebook:
Gatlinburg Fire Missing or Found
Sevier County Missing Pets
Gatlinburg Fire Livestock Aid
Help for Displaced Horses
Help the Animals in the Wildfire
