[Ottawa, June 7, 2023] - Immediately following the collapse of Ukraine’s Nova Kakhovka dam, Veterinarians Without Borders/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Canada (VWB/VSF Canada), mobilized volunteers and local partner organization in a search and rescue operation providing emergency assistance for both animals and people affected by the devastating disaster.
The catastrophic dam collapse has resulted in widespread flooding, endangering villages, crops, and drinking water supplies, putting thousands of human and animal lives at immediate risk. To support the large scale operation, VWB/VSF Canada has launched an urgent public appeal for support.
"It's a crisis within a crisis,” says Executive Director Charmaine Brett. “We were already on the ground to support with food & supplies delivery, along with spay neuter efforts and sheltering amidst a war. This brings the work to a whole other level of emergency."
The organization's urgent appeal seeks to raise funds to support critical response efforts in the following areas:
• Animal Rescue and Care: VWB/VSF Canada aims to rescue stranded animals, provide immediate medical attention, and offer essential care to those separated from their families due to the disaster. By supporting animal welfare, the organization ensures that no innocent life is left behind.
• Medical Supplies and Equipment: The availability of vital medical supplies and equipment is crucial in saving injured and traumatized animals. VWB/VSF Canada requires essential resources such as medications, bandages, vaccines, and surgical equipment to effectively address the medical needs of animals affected by the crisis.
• Humanitarian Support: Recognizing the inseparable bond between humans and animals, VWB/VSF Canada is committed to assisting affected communities by providing vital support, including food, shelter, and other essential resources for families and their beloved animal companions. By extending a helping hand to both humans and animals, VWB/VSF Canada aims to restore hope and alleviate suffering during this challenging time.
""It's critical to get funds and supplies to those that we have on the ground right now. The clock is ticking for thousands of lives," says Brett.
Donations to VWB/VSF Canada's urgent appeal will enable the organization to provide immediate relief, save lives, and protect vulnerable animals and communities affected by this unimaginable crisis.
The public will receive a tax receipt for their donations and contribute to VWB/VSF Canada's urgent appeal at: https://vetswithoutborders.ca.
About Veterinarians Without Borders/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Canada:
Veterinarians Without Borders/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Canada is a registered charity (#84146 9547 RR0001) dedicated to improving the health and well-being of animals, people, and the environment in vulnerable communities worldwide. Through capacity-building programs, veterinary care, and disaster response initiatives, VWB/VSF Canada strives to create sustainable solutions and empower communities to thrive.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Charmaine Brett
Executive Director
Veterinarians Without Borders/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Canada
+1-613-880-1655
charmaine@vetswithoutborders.ca
vetswithoutborders.ca
Image downloads:
https:/files/newsrelease/DamFloodingBoat.jpg
https:/files/newsrelease/DamFloodingDogs.jpg
Video download:
https:/files/newsrelease/rescue.mov
(Caption: Rescue workers pick up stranded and injured animals from areas affected by flooding from the Nova Kakhovka dam collapse in southern Ukraine on Wednesday June 7, 2023. Handout/Veterinarians Without Borders/Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Canada)
By making a generous donation today you can help animals and animal health workers in need, across Ukraine.
