Feed and vet help needed after floods hit Townsville animal rescue

A Townsville animal rescue has been left reeling after floodwaters tore through its facilities, leaving animals in distress and feed supplies destroyed. Here’s how you can help.

A Townsville animal rescue has been left reeling after floodwaters tore through its facilities, leaving animals in distress and feed supplies destroyed.

Now, Michelle’s Ark Animal Rescue is making an urgent appeal for help — dry feed, vet care, and donations are desperately needed.

Michelle Bible, who runs the charity, said the chaos began late on Friday when Sachs Creek swelled beyond its banks and eventually flooded the rescue’s feed shed and animal pens in Oak Valley.

“I got home from work about 1pm and the creek was rising quite quickly, and then it just continued through to Saturday,” Ms Bible said.

Michelle's Ark Animal Rescue Inc owner Michelle Bible, has been affected by the floods losing over $1000 worth of feed due to the flood waters. Picture: Shae Beplate.

“Friday, and Saturday were our worst days where everything started going through animal pens and enclosures.”

The Ark is currently home to a pony, a large number of poultry, and six goats.

Ms Bible said she quickly relocated the poultry and goats to safety, but a stubborn pony remained outside, which has led to some health issues.

“He’s got very soft hoofs now and sort of just doesn’t seem himself. So not 100 per cent well,” Ms Bible said, noting the need for veterinary care.

The flood’s impact extended beyond the animals’ wellbeing. It also devastated more than half of the rescue’s vital feed supplies.

Michelle's Ark Animal Rescue Inc owner Michelle Bible, has been affected by the floods losing over $1000 worth of feed due to the flood waters. Picture: Shae Beplate.

“The hay itself, like $45 for a square bale or $60 for a round bale. So you’re looking probably over the $1,000 marks worth of loss of food,” Ms Bible said.

“It’s a big setback for a charity like us.”

Flooding at Oak Valley soaked vital feed and supplies at Michelle's Ark Animal Rescue. Picture: Supplied

Now, the Ark is urgently appealing for help, emphasising that even small donations can make a difference.

“You know, like even if people can help with $5, that still helps towards everything,” she said.

The charity is accepting both monetary donations and physical donations of dry animal feed to aid in their recovery efforts.

Those wishing to support the rescue can call 0421716159 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

Originally published as Feed and vet help needed after floods hit Townsville animal rescue