Disaster Response & Risk Reduction

When disasters occur, animals need people, and people need help. From raging fires to volcanic eruptions—before, during, and after—IFAW is there. We tackle every link in the chain: we work to mitigate the impacts of climate change while preparing for the inevitable, we deploy to hardest-hit areas and train teams to do the same, and we don’t leave until the job is done, often long after the disaster leaves the news cycle.  

The best way to survive a disaster? Plan for it. IFAW works with local governments, partners and communities to ensure that when disaster strikes, both humans and animals – livestock, domestic animals and wildlife have a path to safety. We train responders and partners in every aspect of disaster preparedness and technical response including search and rescue, temporary sheltering and emergency veterinary care.   

IFAW has pioneered a number of innovative techniques to help when and where needed. One example is the development of animal rescue networks: thousands of strategically located partners, experts and authorities across every continent but Antartica (yet) allowing us to respond immediately when the call comes in.