A US airline has saved the lives of dozens of animals following the devastation of Hurricane Harvey by flying them thousands of miles across the US.

Southwest Airlines flew more than 60 animals out of storm-hit Houston to a facility in San Diego.

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Their actions has helped relieve the strain on overcrowded rescue centres in Texas that have seen an influx of displaced animals in the wake of the deadly storm.

“The devastation of Hurricane Harvey has impacted a number of our communities along the Gulf. Our hearts are with our customers, employees, family and friends who have experienced loss and devastation from the storm,” said Linda Rutherford, Southwest Airlines Chief Communications Officer.

“We’re so happy to partner with the Helen Woodward Animal Center to extend hope to Houston by transporting shelter animals to a new home in San Diego, while making additional space for family pets whose humans are currently displaced.

“Our employees care so deeply for our customers and all those impacted by Hurricane Harvey, including our sweet little four-legged friends.”

Needless to say, this was one furry rescue flight, with plenty of love to go around! pic.twitter.com/mtBuDBGDw1 — Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) September 6, 2017

Southwest has teamed up with with Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC) in San Diego who said the animals faced being euthanised before they stepped in.

“These are the silent victims,” said Mike Arms, HWAC president. “There are shelters that have been devastated by Hurricane Harvey, without electricity, without supplies.

The people of @hwac stepped up to take in these pets that were relocated to different shelters, but they needed a ride to San Diego. pic.twitter.com/qpBjWanIN6 — Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) September 6, 2017

After #Harvey, many existing shelter animals in affected areas had to be moved to other cities to make room for pets of displaced families. pic.twitter.com/3EzQ5SjGPB — Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) September 6, 2017

“Operation Pets Alive! has taken in an overwhelming number of orphan dogs and cats who had inhabited those shelters before the storm and were suddenly facing euthanasia simply because they had no place to go.

“We are honoured to help save those lives and we are lucky to have incredible friends like Southwest to help make this all possible.”

Read originally published post at: telegraph.co.uk