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The American Humane Association has raised $15,000 to help animal shelters that are taking in surrendered pets in the Gulf Coast area whose owners can no longer afford to care for them due to the economic impacts of the oil spill.

The first grant is going to the Louisiana SPCA to help 167 animals receive veterinary treatments so they can be transported to shelters where they will have better chances for adoption.

Surrendered pets require medical treatment, vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery before they can be adopted into new, loving homes. As a result, animal shelters in the region are being stretched beyond their capacity, flooded by surrendered animals at the same time they are impacted by the growing economic crisis in the Gulf. Animal shelters across the nation are offering support to Gulf area shelters by taking in and caring for the overflow of animals.

“When disasters strike, we are always impressed with — and inspired by — the way our donors respond and the sheltering community unites to help,” said Dori Villalon, vice president of Animal Protection for American Humane. “This grant fund will enable us to assist animal shelters that are taking in animals from the Gulf Coast area and finding new homes for them.”

American Humane is currently seeking additional funds to be able to provide grants to shelters when unforeseeable disasters put animals at risk. Grants are available based on resources and the generosity of the organization’s donors.