Alaqua Animal Refuge is facing mounting pressure as it cares for animals displaced by Hurricane Milton, despite receiving emergency assistance from national organizations.

• The Refuge, serving as the designated emergency shelter for the hurricane’s animal victims, is seeking monetary donations, volunteers, foster homes and adopters to sustain its relief efforts.

Many animals arrived with severe health conditions, including heartworm disease, malnutrition, untreated injuries and broken bones, while others exhibit behavioral trauma from the storm.

“These animals have been through so much, and while we’ve made strides in stabilizing them, we need the community’s support to continue their care and find them forever homes,” said Laurie Hood, founder and CEO of Alaqua Animal Refuge.

Before state supplies arrived, the refuge gathered kennels, food and medical supplies from within a three-hour radius to accommodate incoming animals. The displaced animals are currently housed in two large emergency arenas.

• While national animal welfare organizations have provided emergency grants, food and bedding, the volume of animals requiring care has strained the refuge’s resources.

The organization is requesting support through monetary donations at www.alaqua.org, volunteer assistance with animal care and feeding, foster homes to ease overcrowding, and permanent adoption of the displaced animals.

Those interested in helping can visit www.alaqua.org or contact Alaqua Animal Refuge at 850-880-6399.