Hotel for Homeless Dogs evacuated for flooding, in need of emergency foster homes

CUMBERLAND, R.I. (WLNE) — The Hotel for Homeless Dogs in Cumberland was evacuated due to flooding on Tuesday.

The first dog was brought out by kayak shortly before noon.

The director of the hotel, Susan Joseph, said over 20 dogs were rescued. She said the dogs went to emergency foster homes once they were all out safely.

The hotel on Martin Street was alerted around 5:30 a.m. that flooding from the Blackstone River was starting to enter the building.

The Hotel for Homeless Dogs in Cumberland is evacuated after significant flooding, Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. (WLNE)

Martin Street and Ann and Hope Way were closed to through traffic due to the flooding.

River flooding was a high concern across the state after Monday’s storm.

The Pawtuxet River overflowed and caused flooding in residential areas in Warwick and Cranston.

Hotel for Homeless Dogs staff prioritized creating a plan to get the dogs out safely as water pooled down the street.

Joseph said the foster team may need more applicants, as more dogs are expected to arrive this week.

Any interested fosters should contact the hotel at contact@HotelforHomelessDogs.com or message them on social media.