Operation Grey Muzzle transports shelter dogs from Puerto Rico to mainland U.S.

The Humane Society of the United States, with some incredible partners, is helping engineer the transport of more than 200 dogs in need from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States.

The transport has been dubbed “Operation Grey Muzzle” because of the large number of older dogs on board.

Next week, a group of dogs from overwhelmed Puerto Rico animal shelters will arrive at airports in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.

Upon arrival, these lucky companion animals will continue their journey to shelters and rescue partners along the East Coast.

On Wednesday August 23, a flight will arrive at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Receiving shelters for dogs from this flight include Big Dog Ranch Rescue, The Humane Society of Broward County, The Humane Society Naples, The Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County, and Tri-County Animal Rescue in Florida.

On the same day, another flight will arrive at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Receiving shelters for dogs from this flight include Animal Haven and Animal Rescue Fund of The Hamptons in New York, The Humane Society of Charlotte in North Carolina, The Monmouth County SPCA in New Jersey, and The Humane Society of Washington County in Maryland.

The transport aims to provide room for local animal shelters to take in other homeless and stray animals as they continue their work with Humane Puerto Rico, an initiative of the Humane Society of the United States. The program seeks to improve the welfare of animals on the island.

“We’re grateful to all of the receiving organizations for opening their doors to these dogs in need,” said Kim Alboum, director of sheltering outreach and policy engagement for the HSUS.

“We hope this operation results in new homes for these wonderful dogs and provides much-needed breathing room for the animal shelters as they work toward sustainable solutions to the massive pet overpopulation on the island.”

Participants in Operation Grey Muzzle include Wings of Rescue, Pittsburgh Aviation Animal Rescue Team, GreaterGood.org, The Grey Muzzle Organization, Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Grace Park Animal Hospital, The Humane Society of Broward County, The Humane Society of Charlotte, and The Sato Project.

“GreaterGood.org is thrilled to offer our support to help fund this transport,” said Liz Baker, executive director of GreaterGood.org.

“Helping these animals find their forever homes while also aiding the animal welfare community of Puerto Rico resonates with our organization’s mission and our passionate donors.”

Image via HumaneSociety.org