In the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that struck the southeastern province of Hatay on February 6th, efforts have been made to provide for the nutritional needs of both domestic and stray animals affected by the disaster. Anadolu Agency (AA) reported on Tuesday that over 55 tons of pet food have been distributed since the first day of the disaster.
A number of organizations, including teams from the 7th Regional Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks, Hatay Metropolitan Municipality, district municipalities, and NGOs, have been working together to ensure that animals in need of care are being provided for. Stray animals, such as cats and dogs, are being fed in areas where food has been left, while teams also support the nutritional needs of pets belonging to earthquake victims living in tent and container cities.
According to The Turkish News Portal, Amasya Governor Mustafa Masatlı, who is in charge of animal health and care in the city, spoke to AA about the efforts being made to accommodate domestic and stray animals under suitable conditions. He explained that animals rescued from the wreckage are being treated at animal collection and dispatch centers in the Antakya, Iskenderun, and Samandağ districts of Hatay, and those left unattended on the streets are being taken to shelters for examination, vaccination, and care.
Masatlı also thanked volunteer citizens and veterinarians who have contributed to the efforts. “Apart from the nutrition and care work we provide for the animals in the shelters and on the street, we also provide food support to pets in tents and container cities where earthquake survivors reside, and provide treatment services to injured and sick animals through our volunteer veterinarians,” he said.
The work being done to support the nutritional needs of animals affected by the earthquakes in Hatay highlights the importance of providing care not only for people, but also for the animals who are impacted by such disasters.
