Indiana Shelter Evacuates 101 Dogs During Historic Flood
The Animal Protection League in Anderson, Indiana, evacuated over 300 animals, including 101 dogs, during severe August flooding.
The Animal Protection League (APL) in Anderson, Indiana, evacuated more than 300 animals when historic floodwaters threatened its shelter in mid-August. Staff urgently requested crates, kennels, sandbags, and foster homes as the White River reached a record crest.
Central Indiana endured repeated thunderstorms and heavy rain from August 11 to 17, 2026. More than a foot of rain fell in some areas, triggering widespread flooding that forced the complete evacuation of the APL building.
Community and Volunteer Response
As danger grew, community members rallied. Volunteers helped move animals and supplies. Foster families opened their homes. Veterinary and rescue partners offered space. The evacuated dogs were taken to temporary placements, including a local fairground barn.
APL’s director reported that every evacuated pet found an emergency foster placement or was housed by a partner rescue. The shelter itself was left with about two feet of potentially contaminated water inside for around 48 hours. A restoration company was required to clean and sanitize the building before any return.
From Evacuation to Adoption
The emergency evacuation became an unexpected clearance event. Some dogs were adopted directly. Others stayed in temporary foster care during the restoration. Some foster families decided they could not part with their temporary charges.
By September 5, the shelter's dog population had dramatically changed.
| Date | Dogs at Shelter |
|---|---|
| Night of the flood | 101 |
| September 5 | 23 |
Staff worked through extraordinary circumstances. They repaired damage, replaced flooring, and installed new fixtures. The adoption team held meet-and-greets in the dog park to maintain connections between people and pets. Volunteers traveled to a partner animal hospital to walk boarded dogs and helped refresh the shelter with new paint.
Ongoing Recovery and Support
APL obtained outdoor kennels for a veterinary technician's farm, creating emergency space for up to 10 dogs. Even while recovering, the organization helped neighboring pet owners and another rescue that suffered greater flood damage.
Long before the flood, iHeartDogs Hero VIP Club members were helping APL through donations and dog care packages. These packs contain collars, slip leads, toys, and treats. During the disaster, this reliable support helped strengthen APL's ability to care for dogs through disruption and rebuilding.
The director summed up the experience, stating, "Beautiful things come from tragedy." The flood caused fear and damage but also brought out overwhelming compassion. Hundreds of animals reached safety. Foster families stepped forward. Dogs found homes. The community worked side by side to help APL begin again.
