IFAW emergency experts carry out post-Tsunami training

IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is sharing its wealth of experience over seven days in Sumatra and Borneo, as part of its post-Tsunami relief operation in Indonesia.

Training takes place in Bukittinggi, Sumatra, from 15-18 September and Pangkalan Bun, Kalimantan, from 20-22 September. Workshops will focus on being prepared for a wildlife disaster, emergency care and rehabilitation. 

“This training is a vital part of IFAW’s post-Tsunami relief effort. Animals are often lost or owners are forced to leave them behind during natural disasters,” said IFAW Emergency Relief Operations Manager, Dr Anand Ramanathan.

“Animals often play an important part in rebuilding communities. For many survivors in Tsunami affected areas, their animals are their lifeline.”

The workshops are being organized by IFAW, Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association, Association of Indonesian Wildlife, Aquatic and Exotic Veterinarians, Woodland Park Zoo and Wildlife Trust of India.

IFAW has been responding to emergencies such as oil spills, bushfires and floods around the world for more than 10 years. Following the Tsunami on December 26 last year, IFAW vaccinated thousands of dogs, cats, livestock and other animals as well as providing food and homes for hundreds of others.

In Indonesia, IFAW supported local groups to help rescue wild animals from a devastated zoo and provides treatment and vaccinations to scores of animals in Banda Aceh.

IFAW is currently working alongside other organizations and government agencies to assist with the rescue and care of animals affected by Hurricane Katrina.

IFAW emergency experts carry out post-Tsunami training.

12 September 2005—Indonesian vets are being trained by IFAW experts in emergency animal care on how to cope with floods, fires, disease outbreaks and other wildlife emergencies.