Rescue and relief efforts continue in Nepal as communities remain stranded

Families are doing what they can to provide surviving animals with food, water, and shelter while coping with devastating losses of their own. Animals separated from their owners or left without someone to care for them face even greater risks. Responders say the immediate priorities are nutritious food, clean water, veterinary treatment, safe temporary shelter, and continued monitoring.

Together, these locally led organisations are helping build a clearer picture of animal needs across a disaster where access, geography, and the scale of destruction make any single organisation's response especially challenging.

Including animals in disaster response plans

Animal needs are not yet routinely integrated into disaster planning in Nepal, and many authorities and humanitarian responders have limited experience addressing animals during emergencies. IFAW support is helping local partners work to close that gap.

Through NAWES's engagement, the Nepal Red Cross is now aware of assessing animal needs as part of its outreach to affected communities, creating the potential for animal food and other assistance to be incorporated into future relief deliveries.

Efforts are also underway to incorporate animal welfare questions into the official post-disaster needs assessment. If successful, this could help ensure the needs of animals and the people who depend on them are better understood as Nepal plans for longer-term recovery.

Responding as needs evolve

IFAW remains in close contact with partners across Nepal as access improves and needs evolve. The response is also putting preparedness work already underway in Nepal into practice, strengthening coordination among animal protection organisations, government authorities, and humanitarian responders.

Recovery is expected to take time. As a clearer picture emerges, IFAW will continue working with local partners to determine where support can make the greatest difference for animals and the people who care for and depend on them.