Valley Stream woman helps out pets in Carolinas

As Hurricane Florence bore down on North and South Carolina last Thursday, a Valley Stream woman decided she needed to help the animals that were abandoned as their owners sought shelter.

Danielle Scala, a co-founder of Valley Stream-based Paw it Forward, said she felt the need to help. So when she heard that her friend Jennifer Wood was going down to the Carolinas to help rescue the abandoned pets and volunteer at the shelters in the area, Scala was willing to help.

“Danielle and I talked and she was like, ‘Let me help out,” said Wood, a volunteer for multiple pet organizations, including Paw it Forward and Shirley-based Kids Adopt a Shelter.

Scala had previously held pet supply drives for anuimals caught in Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

To help out with this year’s relief efforts, Scala is collecting dog and cat food, crates, water and personal hygiene items for the victims of Florence. By Monday, hundreds of donations had been brought to Paw it Forward. Wood will make another trip in two weeks, according to Scala.

Before her trip, Wood said that she contacted shelters in the Carolinas and asked what supplies they needed. She received requests for food, leashes, bowls, dish soap and towels.

“I look at it as we’re the voice for animals that don’t have a voice,” Wood said.

She added that Scala has been a major help. “She stepped up and she’s helping out, so she’s actually amazing,” Wood said.

Donations for Wood’s next trip can be brought to 114 Clarendon Drive. Pick up is available on request. For a list of necessary items, visit www.bit.ly/2NPYxgz or www.amzn.to/2OxN7LG.