The National Enquirer 10-09-2001
Rescuers Risk Lives to Save Trapped Pets

By Patricia Towle

In an awsome outpouring of love, courageous rescue workers and pet owners are saving animals trapped in buildings at Ground Zero in New York - often putting their own lives on the line.

And the remarkable effort shows that life of all kinds is precious to bighearted Americans."Not all survivors of the terrorist attack walked on two legs," ASPCA spokeswoman Deborah Sindell told the ENQUIRER.

Animals had to be left behind during the quick evacuation and still others were trapped in buildings which surrounded the World Trade Center.

"Many of the people still missing and presumed dead were also pet owners."
The ASPCA, Good Samaritans from all walks of life and pet lovers are pitching in to reunite heartbroken owners with their dogs, cats, rabbits - and even a gecko...

...Good Samaritans Robert Ake and Kent Carter - employees of Professional Pet Transports Inc. - were in Colorado delivering an animal when they learned of the disaster. Instead of heading back to the peace and quiet of their Oregon based headquarters, they turned their bus around and headed straight for the carnage in New York.

They spent four grueling days at Ground Zero, helping devastated pet owners navigate through the rubble and locate their pets.

They stayed right at the scene of the awful destruction, catching a few winks of sleep in their bus, until the job was done. Their only payment was the grateful smiles and heartfelt thanks of people reunited with their little companions. For Robert and Kent, that was more than enough.

Revealed the ASPCA's Sindell: "Pet stores have donated food, litter, dog collars, leashes and crates to house the animals we rescue. Vets and pet sitters are taking in animals whose owners are still missng or who are in temporary housing which doesn't allow them to have animals.

"And dog walkers and pet transport services are offering their services free of charge."

Although still reeling in shock, this invincible city is displaying its greatness once again - extending a helping hand to even its littlest residents.