An animal rescue in the Tampa Bay area has been grappling with the loss of their air conditioning unit in a shed that houses dog kennels, and they are now reaching out to the community for assistance.

Angela Schab showed 8 On Your Side the shed at FLUFF Animal Rescue in Pinellas Park. Nine dogs had to bear some heat Thursday morning.

“So I came in and I was like, ‘It’s a little warm in here,’ did a touch and there was really no air coming out,” Schab said.

She said she put in a few phone calls, and at the time didn’t have luck. So they focused on getting the animals out.

“The dogs were panting. In fact, being in the shaded area outside was cooler than staying inside the shed, so we spent extra time there today,” explained Schab.

The rescue put out a plea to the community to foster the animals, saying it’s unclear how long it’s going to take to get the AC fixed or replaced.

Jon Shepherd, who adopted a dog from the rescue organization, FLUFF, in January, said, “I quickly emailed the foster coordinator to find out how I could assist. We already have the dogs outside, and they’re going to wear me out.”

The rescue center has been receiving nonstop calls, with more individuals showing interest in fostering pets over the weekend. A company is scheduled to examine the air conditioning unit, and they informed 8 On Your Side that a replacement seems necessary.

“We’ve requested donations, and many caring people have already contributed. We’re prepared to move forward if a repair isn’t possible today,” mentioned Schab.

Meanwhile, the pups are on a weekend getaway until their temporary home cools off.

For information on how you can donate toward the rescue, click here.