In the wake of catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, a dog named Superman has captured national attention, inspiring hope among animal lovers and rescue workers alike. The flooding, which occurred in early March 2024, has resulted in over 120 confirmed fatalities and at least 160 individuals still unaccounted for. The disaster struck Kerr County, approximately 100 miles from Austin, where a month’s worth of rain fell within hours, causing the Guadalupe River to rise dramatically from 3 feet to nearly 30 feet in a short span.
As families fled the rising waters, many were forced to leave their pets behind. Among them was Superman, a muscular light brown dog who was discovered by rescue workers amidst debris and destruction. A poignant image shared on the Austin Pets Alive! Facebook page shows him patiently waiting for his family, perched on a broken beam, his large brown eyes filled with hope.
Dr. Ellen Jefferson, CEO and president of Austin Pets Alive!, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless pets, has mobilized extensive resources in response to the crisis. The organization has collaborated with various rescue groups on the ground and enlisted around 1,000 volunteers, including veterinarians, to care for animals left behind. Austin Pets Alive! has also facilitated the transfer of hundreds of animals from local shelters to accommodate the influx of pets affected by the floods.
The situation has been particularly challenging, according to Jefferson. “The water was flowing so fast that if an animal fell into the river, they most likely died or ended up far away, even miles downriver,” she explained. The devastation across the area is staggering, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble.
Superman’s backstory is both heart-wrenching and heroic. Rescuers learned that he was part of a family that was trying to escape as the floodwaters rose. Tragically, while the owner managed to save Superman, they ultimately lost their life in the process. Rescuers found him alone on the debris pile that had been his home. “The dog was there by himself. There was no one else there at the time,” Jefferson noted.
As volunteers scoured the area for displaced pets, they encountered numerous animals in need. Some were injured and receiving care at a mobile veterinary clinic set up on-site. Others, like several cats at a trailer park, showed surprising resilience, coming out unscathed despite the destruction around them.
In contrast, Superman initially displayed fear and territorial behavior, making it challenging for rescuers to approach him. They called in a behavior team from Austin Pets Alive! to assist. “I think even the original searchers were eventually able to sweet-talk him,” Jefferson recounted. Once he began to trust them, Superman walked calmly on a leash and even rode in a vehicle with the rescuers. After receiving a clean bill of health from a veterinarian, he was taken to a temporary foster home.
Although Superman’s family has lost everything, they remain connected to him. “We know that they love him and he’s part of the family,” Jefferson said. “That human-animal bond is so critical for exactly that reason.” Superman will stay with his foster family for as long as needed, alongside other animals in similar situations.
The story of Superman has gained widespread media attention, underscoring the plight of pets and their owners during disasters. Austin Pets Alive! has actively sought donations to support their rescue efforts. “It’s a real group effort to help these animals, for sure,” Jefferson said, acknowledging the dedication of the veterinarians and volunteers involved.
Superman’s journey from survival to symbol of hope highlights the resilience of both animals and humans in the face of adversity. As Jefferson aptly put it, “He is definitely a good, good boy with a totally appropriate name.”
