North Texas animal shelters taking in gulf coast pets

North Texas animal shelters are mobilizing to make sure people don't have to choose between their pets and evacuating.

More than 100 cats from Corpus Christi arrived at the SPCA of Texas in West Dallas on Friday. The SPCA is ready to take in a total of 300 animals at its Dallas location.

During Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago, some people refused to leave since they could not take their pets with them to a shelter. An estimated 250,000 animals were left to fend for themselves.

After Katrina, the SPCA’s Maura Davies says the organization developed a disaster plan that it’s put in place now.

"Trying to compile resources to people fleeing the coast where they can board their pets, or stay with them,” Davies said.

Preparations were well underway to set up crates in the SPCA’s rescue center to make room for the potential need.

The SPCA says people wanting to help can bring donations like towels, blankets, toys, treats, newspapers, and cat litter to either this West Dallas location or its McKinney location. They also have an Amazon wish list set up.