Need a dog? Fort Worth shelter has rescued animals from Baton Rouge

Shelters in Baton Rouge were already full before a deadly floods displaced thousands of people and their pets.

To help make room for those animals, North Texas shelters have sent teams to Louisiana to help clear the cages.

Crews from the Humane Society of North Texas returned to Fort Worth late Sunday with 37 dogs that were being sheltered before the flooding began.

“With the shelters full, they would have to euthanize many to make room for the flood dogs,” said Sandy Shelby, the humane society’s executive director.

The flooding began in mid-August after torrential rain overwhelmed areas in the southern part of Louisiana. At least 13 people died and an estimated 30,000 people were left homeless.

Countless pets also found themselves without homes — until animal rescue groups from across the nation offered their services.

HSTN staff made visits to three shelters in the Baton Rouge area, including in Alexandria. The dogs are of a variety of breeds and the majority are medium in size.

Shelby said that with so many dogs needing homes, deciding on which ones to bring back is difficult.

“We were pulling dogs we feel confident we will be able to adopt out,” she said.

The dogs are in quarantine for now, being treated for kennel cough, but should be ready for adoption within two to three weeks.

Shelby said the HSNT has plans to return for more dogs.

“This doesn’t have to the the only trip; we’re willing to go down and get more,” she said. “They know we’re ready, willing and able.”

This story was originally published September 8, 2016 at 5:33 PM with the headline "Need a dog? Fort Worth shelter has rescued animals from Baton Rouge."