Mangano Thanks Volunteers as Nassau’s Emergency Pet Shelter Closes its Doors after Helping 515 Furry Victims of Superstorm Sandy

“Bruno” Headed to Rescue Group as Potential Adopters Continue to Show Interest

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano was joined by volunteers from the Nassau SPCA, Pet Safe Coalition and HUG at Nassau’s Emergency Pet Shelter as they closed its doors for a final time after successfully taking care of 515 animals that were victims of Superstorm Sandy. Approximately 55 of the animals were relinquished by their owners and thanks to the work of everyone involved have either been adopted, fostered or placed with a rescue group.

The shelters last and most famous guest “Bruno” was present for the press conference before he left for Northwind Kennels where he will stay as he waits to be adopted into a forever home. Bruno, an adult Rottweiler, was relinquished by his owner who was devastated by Superstorm Sandy after losing his home and job. Today, Bruno is headed to Northwind Kennels, a rescue organization in Bedford, New York. In the last 24 hours, many calls were received thanks to the assistance of the local media. Northwind Kennels will be in touch with potential adopters as they look to pair Bruno up with a person or family. They are still taking applications and anyone interested in adopting Bruno can contact Northwind Kennels in Bedford, New York at (914) 234-3771, ext. 3 or via e-mail at kennelsnorthwind@yahoo.com.

“I am very proud of our volunteers from the Nassau SPCA, Pet Safe Coalition, HUG, our County employees, our CERT volunteers, North Shore Animal League America, LIVMA, Bideawee, Long Island Cat Fanciers, Long Island Parrot Society, Shelter Connection, Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter, Little Shelter, Forgotten Friends, Girls Scouts, HSUS and so many other groups and individuals who have donated so generously of their time and resources,” said County Executive Mangano. “Working together has helped care for and reunite hundreds of animals with their owners during a traumatic time. In addition, we were able to find new homes, foster homes and rescue groups for countless dogs and cats keeping them safe from euthanasia. This is a perfect example of the Nassau spirit and how we come together in the face of disaster.”

In preparation of Superstorm Sandy, County Executive Mangano directed the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management to open the Emergency Pet Shelter with the assistance of Nassau County SPCA and Pet Safe Coalition and North Shore Animal League America. On October 28th, North Shore Animal League America set up two of their Mobile Rescue & Adoption Units to aide in the shelter of displaced pets at the Mitchell Field Athletic Complex. The shelter was then moved, post-Sandy, to a larger location, Mitchell Field Gymnasium, to accommodate the amount of animals that were displaced due to the storm.

Nassau County had kept the shelter open to help ease the stresses of those affected by the devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy by offering temporary shelter for their displaced pets and providing care to ensure their safety and well-being.In total the shelter has taken care of approximately 515 animals. Owners had been able to visit their pets daily.