Dogs and cats that weathered Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico are getting a second chance on Long Island.
A total of 127 dogs and 70 cats were flown to Gabreski Airport in Westhampton Beach on Sunday.
At least 30 of the dogs and two cats will be brought to
Southampton Animal Shelter in Hampton Bays, where shelter directors have made room for them.
When Maria made landfall as a Category 4 storm in Puerto Rico, it left widespread devastation, including at the El Faro Animal Shelter. If its dogs weren't rescued, shelter officials say they would have mostly died, or been left to roam in starving packs on a beach that locals have named "Dead Dog Beach."
After the pups arrive at the Southampton Animal Shelter, they will be quarantined until they're medically cleared. Then, each dog will get behavior assessments to determine what their ideal home situation would be. After that, the pets will be put up for adoption on Long Island.
The shelter says people can check their website for updates on the animals.