130 Stranded Animals Rescued From Puerto Rico

EAST HAMPTON, NY — It was a happy day in Westhampton Sunday as 130 animals landed safely after being rescued from Puerto Rico.

The rescue mission was conducted by the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons.

"This is our biggest rescue to date," ARF representatives said.

The chartered cargo plane landed at Westhampton's Francis S. Gabreski at 1:30 p.m., and all animals are now safe at the ARF Adoption Center in Wainscott; all animals need to be medically cleared before they will be available for adoption, ARF said.

ARF has been working with its rescue partner Barks of Hope, who are still without aid and electricity in Rincon, ARF said.

ARF gave special thanks to its Director of Operations Michele Forrester and her husband and the team's transport driver Jamie Forrester.

"This rescue mission was made possible in part by the Irving and Phyllis Millstein Trust for Animals," ARF said. "This trust was established from their estate to protect and support vulnerable and at-risk animals, and ARF proudly undertakes this mission in in their honor."

It was the second rescue mission Puerto Rico in 2 months for ARF’s transport team, as aide continues to be an issue on the island; the team flew out on Wednesday, Dec. 13.

To help the rescues and donate to aid in ARF's ongoing mission, click here.

Photos, video by Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons.