Urgent Response Leads to Legal Consequences In a critical and deeply unsettling animal rescue operation, Alaqua Animal Refuge, led by founder Laurie Hood, intervened in a life-threatening situation involving dozens of animals. The effort was coordinated in partnership with Deputy Sheriff Greg Barton of Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Florida, and Washington County Animal Control. Owner Faces Criminal Charges The owner of these distressed animals was arrested and is currently facing four 3rd degree felony charges and 30 1st degree misdemeanors. All animals were legally transferred to Alaqua Animal Refuge for immediate treatment and future adoption. Horrific Conditions Demand Immediate Action Amidst a heatwave, with heat index soaring above 110 degrees, the team discovered animals trapped in a trailer without electricity, water, or adequate food. The conditions were beyond deplorable—filled with trash, debris, and life-threatening holes in the flooring. No Animal Left Behind “I originally planned to assess the situation and try to find placement for these animals, as we are always at full capacity,” said Laurie Hood, Alaqua Founder. “However, once I witnessed the dire conditions, leaving any animal behind was not an option.” A Grim Race Against Time The situation was so extreme that some animals were found deceased. Many of the remaining dogs, puppies, and exotic birds were skittish, many requiring tranquilization for safe removal. A miniature horse that was struggling to live when found, despite around-the-clock care, had to be humanely euthanized. Ongoing Care for Surviving Animals Alaqua is now caring for a... Read More

GulfSAR is continuously monitoring weather conditions and the projected path of Tropical Storm Idalia. Current forecast models have Tropical Storm Idalia strengthening as it crosses the Eastern Gulf of Mexico and rapidly developing into what is projected to be MAJOR Hurricane status as it approaches Florida’s Western Coast. With projected rainfalls and life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic flooding could and likely will occur. Hurricane force winds are expected as early as Tuesday along Florida’s West Coast and Panhandle GulfSAR is arriving in Florida today to assist the Eastern Gulf Coast with evacuations and to stage for immediate flood and swiftwater rescues as Idalia’s impacts are felt. We will provide further information and updates as the situation warrants. About Our Foundation Inspired by life-changing events, GulfSAR was established in 2020. GulfSAR is founded on ethics and safety above all else. Our founders, board members and partners have one goal: to save those who cannot save themselves. GulfSAR is a nonprofit organization made up of specialized, certified Flood and Swiftwater Technicians, K9 Handlers, Rope Technicians, Ground Specialists and Confined Space Technicians dedicated to the safety and well-being of citizens across the United States, providing quality Search and Rescue operations. We are committed to using any and all resources at our disposal to assist in the locating and rescue of persons, household pets and livestock in need of assistance during times of peril…. with a focus, but not limited to, rising and swift water scenarios. Our mission is carried out using the expertise and... Read More