Hilary Swank recently shared a heartwarming story about rescuing pets in the aftermath of 9/11. The Oscar-winning actress recounted her experience volunteering with the ASPCA during the 2001 tragedy.
Swank revealed that people would come to the piers on West Street, seeking help to find their lost pets. She would receive cards with their information and set out to rescue these beloved animals.
During an appearance on the Literally! With Rob Lowe podcast, Swank described the challenges she faced during the rescue mission, including no technology, unstable buildings, and no working elevators. However, she and her team were determined to save as many pets as possible.
She recalled climbing up to the 50th floor of buildings to retrieve animals, ranging from cats and dogs to turtles and hamsters. Despite the trauma these animals experienced, Swank and her team were able to reunite them with their owners.
One particular rescue story that stood out was a terrified cat that Swank helped save. The cat had been through a traumatic ordeal and was reunited with its owner after being rescued from a dangerous and smoky environment.
Swank shared that although she had volunteered at the ASPCA before 9/11, the experience of reuniting pets with their families after the tragedy held a special place in her heart. She described it as a gift to see the joy on the faces of the pet owners when they were reunited with their beloved animals.
