As the cargo plane landed at Kennedy International Airport on a sunny Friday afternoon, the air filled with the sound of barking from the cargo hold. Maad Abu-Ghazalah stood on the tarmac, his heart racing with anticipation. Inside the plane were 69 dogs, each one rescued from his shelter in the West Bank. The moment the hold opened, he locked eyes with Lucas through the crate door.
One by one, familiar faces emerged – Jimmy, Carlos, Farouk, Zoe. Abu-Ghazalah had nurtured each one at Daily Hugz, his rescue center nestled in Asira ash-Shamaliya, just outside Nablus. These dogs, once abandoned or injured, had found solace under his care. The shelter had been their haven, a slice of paradise amidst the chaos. However, the escalating conflict in the West Bank forced Abu-Ghazalah to make a heart-wrenching decision. He reached out to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International, who in turn contacted the ARK at JFK.
The ARK is a marvel of modern logistics, a facility at New York’s busiest airport designed to cater to a wide array of animal guests. Spanning 14 acres and 178,000 square feet, it ensures animals are calm, comfortable, and well-fed during their travels. From racehorses to exotic zoo animals, the ARK is equipped to handle the unique needs of its diverse clientele.
Lori Kalef of S.P.C.A. International shared that over seven years, the ARK has been instrumental in rescuing 1,300 dogs and cats from abroad. On this particular Friday, her team faced numerous challenges transporting the dogs from the West Bank, but their spirits lifted as they approached the ARK’s pet oasis.
The arrival of the dogs marked a significant moment. They were taken to the oasis, where they would spend the night before embarking on their journey to new homes across the United States. Abu-Ghazalah, now residing in Wilmington, N.C., expressed his gratitude towards the ARK, emphasizing its crucial role in the dogs’ resettlement.
The ARK’s founders, John J. Cuticelli Jr. and Elizabeth A. Schuette, drew on expertise from Cornell University’s veterinary program and animal scientist Temple Grandin to create this comprehensive facility. With dozens of kennels, horse barns, and a veterinary clinic, the ARK is prepared for any animal guest. Its operations are vital for equine import and export, as well as small animal care, collaborating with various federal agencies to ensure safe animal transport.
One notable challenge involved venomous reptiles intended for passenger flight, a plan the ARK swiftly vetoed. The facility’s adept handling of such situations underscores its commitment to safety and care. From securing loose bees on the tarmac to accommodating unexpected guests, the ARK’s team is equipped to manage a range of scenarios.
The ARK represents a significant investment and a testament to Cuticelli and Schuette’s dedication. After navigating legal and financial hurdles, they have established the ARK as a leader in animal transport. Their efforts have not only facilitated the safe passage of thousands of animals but also provided peace of mind to their human companions.
Among the recent arrivals were Icelandic horses, prized for their versatility, and Stella, a St. Bernard puppy awaiting a flight to Germany. The ARK’s residents, from beagles serving in airport security to exotic animals in transit, highlight the facility’s role as a global hub for animal care and transport. As Ms. Schuette aptly noted, the ARK can ship nearly anything, ensuring each animal’s journey is as comfortable and safe as possible.