10 February 2005

New Zealand SPCA To Help Animals In Tsunami-Devastated Areas

New Zealand's animal lovers and animal welfare advocates are playing their part in helping the countries around the Indian Ocean to recover from the catastrophic Boxing Day tsunami.

The Royal New Zealand SPCA has pledged NZ$20,000 to the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), which has set up a special emergency fund to cope with the aftermath of the disaster.

"There is no shortage of animals in need of our help here in New Zealand but, in this instance, we are convinced that we must also do something to help the animals and people of countries which have suffered so badly. We are sure that supporters of animal welfare in New Zealand will agree with us," says the SPCA's National Chief Executive, Robyn McDonald.

"Most of the areas devastated have agriculture-based economies and are dependent on their livestock and working animals. There are also many domestic pets that, as with human survivors, have been left traumatised, homeless and unsupported. All too many are still hungry and sick and represent a threat as potential carriers of disease."

"WSPA is coordinating aid to animal welfare groups in the tsunami affected areas and is supporting local efforts to establish shelters and provide animals with food, antibiotics and veterinary help. This assistance will help human communities to rebuild their shattered lives. As New Zealand's leading animal welfare organisation, we felt compelled to contribute to this work," Robyn McDonald adds.

WSPA is the world's largest federation of animal protection organisations with more than 450 member societies, including the Royal New Zealand SPCA. Kimberly Muncaster of WSPA's New Zealand branch says that the organisation is very grateful for the SPCA's funding pledge.

"Many of the human issues associated with the tsunami are sadly mirrored in the plight of the animals, and help is needed immediately to ensure we can deliver ongoing aid and hope for the future," she says.

ENDS

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