Posted: March 8, 2010, 3 a.m. EST
A veterinary mobile clinic has arrived in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to aid the city's cats, dogs and other animals. Photo credit: T.Stargardter, WSPA-IFAW |
The Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH) has entered into a $1.1 million agreement with the Haitian government to improve animal welfare and repair the country’s veterinary capacity after the 7.0 earthquake on Jan. 12.
In Defense of Animals (IDA) is part of the coalition of 20 of the world’s leading animal protection groups that form ARCH, which is led by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The program of animal disaster relief work is aimed to help animals and people recover from the disaster and help protect communities.
This operation includes training of Haitian veterinarians and veterinary health workers and assisting the government in protecting people and animals from disease outbreaks. A staffed laboratory will carry out vaccination campaigns.
The coalition also said a veterinary mobile clinic has arrived in Port-au-Prince. The donated unit supports ARCH’s animal rescue efforts that have treated more than 3,200 animals, including cats and dogs.
“IDA is pleased to be able to help millions of animals in need, address animal and public health concerns and have a long-lasting impact for the animals and people of Haiti,” said Anand Ramanathan, IDA’s executive director.