Grandma Lucy's 501c3 nonprofit, Project Pet RAK was founded by mother/daughter duo, Breann and Alex Shook. Their mission is to raise funds and make generous donations to service and therapy dogs, dogs in need and their people. Project Pet RAK is the proud official food sponsor for Locks 4 Paws and together they have helped many pups in need through their generous contributions. 

Locks 4 Paws was able to provide our wholesome, freeze-dried dog food, to pups in need, that have suffered from a massive storm that hit Mississippi. To better understand the destructive and impact of this storm, Cassie, the founder of Locks 4 Paws has shared her perspective.

"Driving through Armory, a community in Mississippi, recently ravaged by tornadoes, the devastation is everywhere. Lives were turned upside down and countless homes destroyed, displacing hundreds of people and their beloved pets. Around the town, you see tarps covering damaged rooftops and debris piled high in several neighborhoods. On March 24, 2023, the town was demolished by an EF3 tornado, and there is still a long way to recovery. 

At the Armory Humane Society, both buildings sustained significant damage, including part of the roof being torn off. Exposing the interior of the shelter that included the animals and essential supplies. Trees destroyed fencing and one demolished part of the facility, destroying their food supply.

Despite the damage, 60+ animals housed inside were found safe. Most animals were loose, but volunteers were quick to evacuate the animals and secure safe locations for them, saving many lives. Unfortunately, there are so many pets missing and/or have been found and waiting to be reunited with their family! 

Like many others, our hearts have been with the victims of this devastating tornado. We realized there are many displaced pets and supplies needed to help this pet community rebuild. They have since taken in many lost dogs and cats, now being kept in a makeshift area. We are here to support this interim solution by providing crates, food, bowls, cleaning supplies and other essential items to help keep these pets safe and healthy until their family's return. We want to help the families who can keep their pet in the long run, but need temporary assistance with housing, food, supplies. Some families have lost everything and we would like to provide them with hope. 

If severe weather is expected in your area, here are some last-minute pet prep tips: 

1️⃣ Have ample pet food, water, meds (if applicable) and other supplies — to last at least two or three days, but ideally at least a week. 

2️⃣ Ensure microchip info is up-to-date, and put ID collar on pet. 

3️⃣ When seeking shelter, be sure to take your pet's leash. 

4️⃣ Place a sign in your front window or door that states the kind of pet(s) inside and how many there are in case you need to evacuate.

 

Cassie, Founder of Locks 4 Paws.

Thank you Locks 4 Paws for your selfless efforts to helping animals in need during such a trying time. With your generosity and our nutritious dog food, we are able to provide love and care to animals in need. Our thoughts are with the animals and families at this difficult time.