Groups helping animals displaced in West Virginia flooding

KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- It's not just people who have been displaced by the tragic flooding in West Virginia Thursday and Friday.

Many are searching for other loved ones, their pets, after high water washed out several homes and roads across the state.

Organizations are assisting in caring for the animals and reuniting them with their families.

Kanawha County officials tell WSAZ anyone concerned about a lost pet should contact the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association at (304) 342-1576.

The Putnam County Animal Shelter is assisting the Kanawha shelter by donating extra food and cleaning supplies. The Putnam shelter is asking for donations of food, cleaning supplies and money. Donations can be dropped off at the Kanawha County Mobile Command Unit on I-79 near Exit 19.

River Cities Bully Buddies, a volunteer organization in Huntington, is collecting items for animals that belong to families affected by the flooding. According to their Facebook page, they are collecting food, gallons of water, treats, blankets and other items. The group is also prepared to host a fundraiser if needed, according to the post. Donations can be dropped off at the Petco in Barboursville Saturday from 4-6:30 p.m. Contact: rcbbrescue@gmail.com.

Essence of Love Animal Rescue Inc., an animal rescue group from Pittsburgh, will travel to West Virginia to help with temporary sheltering of displaced animals, according to the group's Facebook page.

According to Kerbie Ann Fryer, listed as the group's president on Facebook, the temporary shelter is being set up on high ground at 2577 Longridge Rd., Elkview, WV. The group is also collecting donation items. Contact: 724-513-0145 or 304-552-1202.

Other volunteers are out searching for animals in accessible locations.

There are also several GoFundMe pages set up to collect donations.