AHA Red Star Team Mobilizes to Help Victims of Colorado Wildfires

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American Human Association

Via PR Newswire - As tens of thousands of residents flee the worst wildfires in Colorado history, American Humane Association has mobilized its famed Red Star rescue team and is rushing to help the animal victims of the disaster.

Through the generous support of Mars Petcare US, makers of Pedigree Food for Dogs and Whiskas Food for Cats, Red Star is reaching out with critical help and on-the-ground rescue and support services. Their 82-foot-long "Rescue Rig" is fully equipped with a mobile operating theater, emergency rescue equipment, and accommodations for 12 volunteers.

As part of a coordinated response to the fires, Red Star was invited by the State of Colorado to deploy as an approved first-responder to assist pets in need and to help provide emergency rescue operations, sheltering and much-needed care to these innocent animal victims. The Red Star Rescue Rig left its home base in Denver yesterday morning headed to Colorado Springs, where it was expected to arrive later that day to begin setting up an additional emergency shelter at the Cheyenne Mountain High School. A convoy of support vehicles including a 4-wheel-drive pickup and horse trailer followed the Rescue Rig to begin the rescues.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, children and animals of Colorado," said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Association. "Fortunately, our Red Star team is well-trained and well-qualified to handle this kind of emergency. Help is on the way!"

"Mars Petcare is proud to be helping protect our communities by supporting the legendary Red Star Rescue Team," said Angel May, community affairs manager for Mars Petcare US. "We're working closely with American Humane Association to send volunteers, food and supplies to support the on-the-ground effort in Colorado."

For more news about the Red Star team's emergency work during these disasters or to support their efforts to help animals in crisis, please go to www.americanhumane.org.