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Helping People and Animals in Haiti

The destruction caused by Tuesday’s earthquake in Haiti is enormous and our hearts and thoughts are with the survivors and rescue workers during this time of devastation. Many of you have reached out to the Marin Humane Society to ask what you can do to help bring relief to Haiti’s animals at this time of urgent need.

As you can imagine the situation in Haiti is very daunting. Under the newly formed Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH), organizations including the International Fund for Animal Welfare, World Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Humane Society of the United States are working on a preliminary assessment of animal-care needs in Haiti, taking into account the security, transportation, housing and supply challenges at the moment. There are efforts to cooperate with human relief agencies since there are no organized animal welfare groups in Haiti. Currently, a team of experts in animal emergency response is staging in the Dominican Republic waiting to get into Haiti to begin work. A mobile clinic is being stocked with vaccines, antibiotics, bandages, food and other supplies in anticipation of bringing direct aid to animals.

According to ARCH organizations, there are an estimated 5 million head of livestock in the country (mostly goats), a large stray dog population, and an untold number of companion animals and native wildlife all adversely affected by the earthquake.

MHS will be in touch with these known and established agencies and should rescue/aid teams leave from the Bay Area there may be an opportunity for MHS to act as a conduit to funnel support. We will let our community know should this opportunity arise.

Thank you for your concern and willingness to help the people and animals of Haiti. We will post updates as they become available.

Photo at left courtesy of UNDP