In early July 2025, Central Texas was struck by catastrophic flooding that devastated communities, displaced thousands of people, and left countless animals vulnerable. The unprecedented storm dumped over 20 inches of rain within hours, causing rivers to rise dramatically and inundate entire towns. Amid this disaster, local animal shelters quickly became overwhelmed with pets separated from their families or left homeless by the rising waters.
Responding swiftly to the crisis, a coalition of animal rescue organizations mobilized to provide emergency relief for the displaced animals. Best Friends Animal Society, Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), and Wings of Rescue coordinated a large-scale airlift operation to evacuate dozens of dogs and cats from flood-impacted shelters to safer locations.
The Scale of the Disaster
The flooding resulted from a powerful mesoscale convective vortex, partly fueled by Tropical Storm Barry’s remnants. The Guadalupe River, for example, surged over 25 feet in less than two hours, submerging communities and causing extensive damage. Many pets were swept away or stranded, while animal shelters found their facilities inundated and their capacity exceeded by a surge of lost or abandoned animals.
As the waters began to recede, local shelters struggled to provide adequate care for the incoming animals, many of whom were traumatized and in need of urgent medical attention.
Coordinated Rescue Effort
On July 9, 2025, a coordinated airlift operation took flight. A twin-engine turboprop departed San Marcos, Texas, carrying 127 animals — 47 dogs and 80 cats — evacuated from affected shelters. The flight made a stopover in Fort Worth, where 59 animals were transferred to local humane organizations, while the remaining 68 continued on to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary.
This airlift not only alleviated pressure on local shelters but also allowed for a better chance at reunification of pets with their owners. One notable success story involved a dog named Superman, rescued from flood debris by Austin Pets Alive!, who was subsequently reunited with his surviving family members after the rescue.
Community and Volunteer Support
The operation was made possible by a broad network of volunteers, animal welfare groups, and community partners. Organizations such as San Antonio Animal Care Services, in partnership with the Bissell Pet Foundation, worked tirelessly to shelter displaced animals and coordinate their relocation. Austin Pets Alive! even established a temporary veterinary hospital in Kerrville, Texas, to provide critical medical care to animals affected by the floods.
Volunteers described the emotional challenge of the rescue — witnessing pets swept away by floodwaters was heartbreaking, yet the dedication to saving as many animals as possible was unwavering. Their efforts underscore the deep bond between humans and their animal companions, even amid the most devastating natural disasters.
The Road Ahead
While the immediate rescue phase has been successful, long-term recovery is ongoing. Organizations continue to work on reuniting lost pets with their families and providing care for those needing new homes. Donations and volunteer support remain vital for sustaining these efforts.
The Texas flood animal rescue operation is a powerful example of compassion, resilience, and community spirit in the face of adversity. It demonstrates how coordinated efforts between local shelters, national organizations, volunteers, and the public can make a profound difference for vulnerable animals during emergencies.
Sources
- San Antonio Animal Care Services to shelter pets affected by Texas floods
- Over 300 pets overwhelm Austin area shelters after devastating Texas floods. How to help
- Texas animal rescue group helps ‘influx’ of missing dogs and cats as floodwaters recede
- Animal groups airlift 47 dogs and 80 cats from Texas to safety
- Rescuers saved dog from Texas flood debris and found pet’s family
- Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Flood Response
- July 2025 Central Texas floods
More: cat rescue
Post-script:
Tragically, the devastating floods in Central Texas not only displaced countless animals but also resulted in a heartbreaking loss of human life. Among those who perished were many families, including several young girls on holiday whose lives were cut short far too soon. The scale of the human tragedy underscores the urgent need for continued support and recovery efforts for all affected communities. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones mourning these profound losses.
Here’s a short, solemn poem to honor those lost:
Whispers on the Rising Tide
In quiet waves, the silence grows,
Where laughter once did freely flow.
A tender light, now dimmed, withdrawn,
Yet in our hearts, they linger on.
Young voices lost upon the flood,
Their memories wrapped in gentle mud.
Though waters took them far from sight,
Their souls shine ever pure and bright.
