A Spokane-based animal sanctuary has joined forces with a nonprofit organization to protect its big cats and other animals from the dangers of natural disasters. HEART, a group focused on rescuing animals during emergencies, recently visited Cat Tales Wildlife Center in North Spokane to explore ways they can assist in times of crisis.
“This partnership is a valuable addition to our planning and preparation efforts,” said a HEART representative during the visit.
HEART specializes in rescuing animals during disasters, from house pets to livestock, ensuring their safety in the face of fires, floods, and other emergencies. Although the large and powerful animals at Cat Tales may seem impervious to harm, the sanctuary is nestled among towering pines in an area vulnerable to wildfires.
“We’re not zookeepers, but we can help with evacuations or sheltering in place if the situation arises,” a HEART member explained.
The collaboration’s importance is emphasized by recent wildfires, such as the Oregon Road Fire in nearby Elk, which destroyed numerous homes in 2023. With the increasing risk of wildfires in Eastern Washington, Cat Tales Executive Director Lisa Gray highlighted the importance of having a trusted partner to assist when necessary.
“In the face of an approaching fire, keeping the property soaked and flame-resistant takes a lot of manpower,” Gray said. “Having a reliable team we can count on to utilize our space is a huge help.”
This tour marks the first step in building a partnership that could be crucial in protecting the animals at Cat Tales. While disasters are unpredictable, Gray stressed the importance of preparation.
“There are many factors we can’t control,” she said. “We focus on what we can control.”
With this new partnership, HEART and Cat Tales aim to strengthen their ability to respond quickly and effectively to disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of the sanctuary’s animals.
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