Protecting animals in Cabo Verde: Day 2 of our response to the Fogo volcano eruptions
News
As our disaster response team finished their assessment of the conditions for animals on Fogo Island, they were able to provide aid for nearly 1,000 more animals.
A second day of response in Cabo Verde has re-emphasised the hardships facing animals on Fogo Island. Volcanic eruptions have devastated much of the island forcing thousands of animals to relocate to barren areas from once green pastures. Already suffering from extreme stress, disease and infection – animals will also face longer term issues related to displacement and ash contamination of feed and water supplies.
A second day on Fogo Island
On the second day our team focused on the eastern side of the island, having covered the western side on day one. Most of the island faces near drought conditions – food and water for animals is scarce and veterinary supplies are not able to meet the animals’ urgent needs. As our assessment continued, we treated the immediate needs of more cattle and dogs, as well as horses, donkeys and pigs.
In the desolate conditions, one area of the island brought with it hope for those lucky animals who were relocated there. It was the only area our team has witnessed with enough water to retain lush vegetation and more comfortable conditions for the animals. Even here, some animals were in urgent need of attention, but our team treated them and left the area optimistic about their future.
Protecting animals on Fogo in 2015
With the assessment of the island now complete, we have begun putting into place a longer-term response to protect as many animals as is possible. So far, we’ve provided aid for nearly 2,500 animals in just two days, but many thousands more require protection. We will be working together with the Cabo Verde authorities over the coming months, providing aid for over 20,000 animals. So keep an eye on our Twitter and Facebook feeds for more updates.
The suffering caused by natural disasters goes on beyond the immediate aftermath. Our disaster programme at World Animal Protection ensures that where we can, we work with local authorities to respond comprehensively and systematically. Our approach saves lives in the short term and ensures that solutions are put in place for the long term.
We move fast to protect animals affected in disaster zones. Read more about the work we do.
We will be working together with the Cabo Verde authorities over the coming months, providing aid for over 20,000 animals.