The Pet Project Helps Companion Animals in Post-Tornado Minneapolis

Editor’s Note: While this project isn’t directly related to Richfield, I felt it was important to highlight this organization because they are working to help our neighbors to the north and volunteer opportunities are constantly searched for on Richfield Patch. In addition, I think someone, someday, somewhere in Richfield may be in need of this organization's help, too.

The has caused a legion of volunteers from all over the Twin Cities to step in and help victims of the storm.

But beyond trying to meet needs of the people affected by the disaster, many volunteers have been the helping the furriest victims—those pet animals left behind.

When the storm hit, Kim Carrier, the unpaid founder and executive director of The Pet Project, knew there was a need. For many people in post-tornado North Minneapolis, their pet dog or cat was their only connection to their normal lives. When the pets suffered, their people suffered as well.

The Pet Project has been helping people by helping their companion animals since 2009, first as a pet rescue and adoption service and later by adding other support services including collecting and distributing pet food to local food shelves. The Minneapolis tornado was Carrier’s first experience with disaster relief.

Within a couple of days of the storm, she had talked her way into the Fairview Park’s disaster relief center, setting up a table next to food, clothing and medical assistance organizations. When the disaster center closed down, she spread the word that she needed a place to provide pet supplies to those in need. The River of Life Lutheran Church contacted her and offered her space. So, for the month of June Carrier and her volunteers manage The Pet Project’s distribution center from the church’s gymnasium.

No Questions Asked

Just by walking in and asking, anyone who cares for a pet can get what they need for free, no questions asked. While most of The Pet Project’s “customers” have dogs or cats, one man left with food for his four pet birds, Carrier said. There are also supplies for hamsters and guinea pigs, too.

Carrier believes it’s important to make distribution as painless as possible. She doesn’t ask for proof of income or even if those who seek help actually need it.

“It’s about the pets,” she said. “Most people are honest. I don’t want to discourage anyone in need because of the five percent who just want something for free.”

In addition to supplies, The Pet Project provides connections to basic veterinary care and helps displaced people find pet-friendly housing.

Living Proof that People Can Make a Difference

While volunteering, Carrier found a homeless gray kitten, probably only four weeks old, lying motionless on the concrete, chilled by the cold. She rushed it to the veterinary hospital and waited almost an hour until it opened. The vet warmed the animal and gave it fluids and oxygen.

“We didn’t think it would make it, but he’s a fighter,” Carrier said.

She has named the kitten Victor and said she has found a home for it.

“Victor, “she said. “Is a symbol of a post-tornado North Minneapolis—with a little help, it will come around.”

Looking to volunteer? Are you in need of help?

• For volunteer opportunities and to donate money online, go to thepetprojectmn.org.
• To donate supplies and money in person, the following organizations are accepting donations: UrbAnimal: 2106 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN;: 7020 Walker St., St. Louis Park, MN; Downtown Dogs: 821 2nd Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN; : 5045 France Ave. S., Edina, MN; Half Price Books: All Minnesota locations during June 2011; money donations only.
• If you are missing or have found an animal tornado orphan, go to facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/tornado.pets.
• If you are in need of pet food and supplies, go to River of Life Lutheran Church, 2200 Fremont Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55411, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays in June.