As I am sure you have heard a cyclone recently hit Myanmar (also known as Burmar). In what is being called the deadliest natural disaster in the history of the country, millions of people have been left in need of shelter, food and water. Amidst all of this devastation animals are suffering alongside people.

WSPA emergency disaster relief teams are currently assessing and preparing to respond

A WSPA veterinary team is on stand-by in Thailand awaiting entry authority to assess and relieve the suffering of thousands of animals affected by Cyclone Nargis. WSPA is receiving daily updates from The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) while preparing our rapid assessment and response team.

The most critical needs for animals in cyclone struck areas will likely be food and veterinary care. The cyclone and resultant flooding have destroyed and contaminated entire crop fields as well as feed and fresh water.

Hundreds of thousands of cows, sheep, goats, and donkeys are potentially being left to starve or are eating food polluted with parasites and harmful bacteria. These animals will need emergency feed, vaccinations, and anti-parasites as soon as possible.

The loss of and injury to animals will also affect people in Myanmar, as most families in cyclone struck areas are impoverished farmers who depend on their animals for their food and livelihoods. For more information about the animal emergency in Myanmar visit www.wspa.org.au