Local Shelter Rescues Dogs from Tornado-Ravaged South

The is asking families in Maplewood, South Orange and beyond to open their hearts and doors to rescued pets orphaned or abandoned due to the ravages of floods and tornadoes in the American South.

Several rescued dogs from Spalding County, Georgia — an area heavily damaged by tornadoes — arrived at the JAC on Walton Road in South Orange on Tuesday, May 10.

On Thursday, May 12, Patch visited the shelter and found that the dogs are adorable and friendly, even as some are still a bit shy and scared, according to Doreen Grasso of the JAC.

JAC Board member Stephanie Scott explained that JAC founder Ruth Perlmutter is coordinating with rescue organizations in the South.

"These pets have not been claimed by their owners and/or their owners could not be located," said Scott. "Some were found in the backyards of destroyed homes. Many of the animals are traumatized. All are in need of care and homes. As you may be aware, the floods and tornadoes have even impacted some of the shelters in the South, so these are truly animals that require transport and new homes."
 
The JAC shelter, located at 298 Walton Avenue in South Orange, is open six days a week (all days except Monday). Hours of operation are Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m.; Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

For more information on adopting these or other pets (), visit the JAC website or call 973-763-7322.