Disaster Relief
Natural and man-made disasters wreak havoc on millions of people and their environment every year. The human tragedy of these incidents is well documented. Less well known is the plight of animals; all too often, they are the forgotten victims.
When people's properties are destroyed, animals' homes often disappear too. Wild animals often have to flee their habitat to survive. Domesticated animals are at risk of remaining trapped or abandoned with no food or water.
Helping animals affected by disasters not only reduces their suffering, it helps restore entire communities.
Why animals matter in a disaster >>
Risk reduction
WSPA works with governments and local animal welfare groups to help prepare communities in disaster-prone areas.
We set up national warning systems and show people how to prepare for disasters. This includes:
- Adequate storage and protection of food and water.
- Identifying animals so they can easily be reunited with their owners.
- Methods for removing animals safely.
- Strengthening and securing animal shelters.
- Vaccination programs.
Rapid response
© WSPA
When disaster strikes, WSPA’s staff can be there within days through our global network of disaster response teams. Our member societies help get relief programs up and running quickly.
WSPA provides emergency veterinary care through static and mobile clinics, feeds hungry animals and reunites animals with their owner wherever possible.
WSPA has been doing relief work in disaster-struck areas for more than four decades.
Read more about two of our recent interventions, in the wake of Hurricane Felix in Nicaragua and of flooding in Bangladesh.
Rehabilitation
WSPA aims to get living conditions back to normal – or improve them – for all affected animals. Restoring veterinary care is crucial.
Often WSPA uses the aftermath to put in place plans for the relief of future disaster situations in the area. These can become models for preparation work elsewhere.
Support us
We never know when a disaster will strike. To support WSPA’s disaster management work, click here.Connect with WSPA on:
