Dog is carried to safety.Lima flooding –
@Municipalidad de Lima
Two months ago, Peru suffered its worst flooding in decades. Heavy rains drenched parts of Peru with 10 times more rainfall than normal, causing rivers to overflow, mudslides to destroy roads and farms, and dozens of villages to be evacuated. In total, more than 70 people died and thousands have been displaced. Peru’s president declared, “There hasn’t been an incident of this strength along the coast of Peru since 1998.”[teaserbreak]
But, consequences of the floods have not only impacted humans. When it comes to natural disasters, animals are also dramatically vulnerable and need our help more than ever.
This is why, along with many other volunteers, I participated in the construction of animal shelters to provide a temporary home for animals impacted by the floods. Dedicated animal protection organizations, such as ASPPA (Asociación Peruana de Protección a los Animales), provided medical assistance to thousands of animals in Lima and distributed more than 15 tons of animal feed across the entire country, with the support of the government and local groups.
Dog caught in flooding.Lima flooding 2 –
@Mariana Baza / Reuters
Now, although the emergency has ended, ASPPA continues to visit affected sites and will soon conduct a sterilization campaign. According to ASPPA Vice President Angela Sanchez, “There is still so much to do. It was a difficult but extremely rewarding experience for us.”
One thing is for sure; the fierce commitment of local organizations like ASPPA to save these animal victims of natural disasters should remain an inspiration for us.
More information on ASPPA can be found on Facebook and at www.asppa-peru.org.
Keep Wildlife in the Wild,
