Bid to aid animals caught up in chaos

AN international animal welfare charity today called on the world not to ignore the plight of livestock, pets and wildlife caught up in the Asian tsunami.

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) said the devastating tidal waves and earthquake had left many dogs, cats and farm animals diseased and without food and water.

The charity is co-ordinating other animal welfare organisations in an international relief effort, and has sent food and veterinary supplies to the region for starving and sick animals.

A spokesman for the London-based organisation said that the first of its disaster relief experts had been sent to Asia, and experienced vets were poised to follow.

He added: "Helping animals has a real impact on the long-term process of people rebuilding their shattered lives, particularly in farming communities.

"Supplies of vital veterinary medicines, food and water, can make the difference between life and death for animals in the aftermath of the disaster.

"Our relief team will be paying particular attention to providing this support."

The spokesman said that WSPA was also concerned about the possible outbreak of disease amongst animal populations.

It was monitoring the need for a vaccination programme in liaison with the World Organisation for Animal Health, he said.