Our disaster team arrives this evening in Port Vila and will get straight to work helping animals affected by Cyclone Pam.
Aerial surveys of outlying islands depict entire communities wiped out, houses, farmlands and gardens partially or totally destroyed and damages reminiscent of that last seen in late 2013 when Typhoon Haiyan decimated parts of the Philippines. Residents had drawn large white "H's" on the ground or made them from mirrors, appealing for help the only way they can, as communications with many islands are still down.
A dog lies among downed trees in Vanuatu's capital Port Vila. March 15, 2015 © World Animal Protection / Nicky Kauatonga
Food is predicted to run out for both people and animals by the end of March and that, along with shelter and emergency medical care are the priorities for helping survivors. We are working hard to get critical medicine and veterinary supplies shipped in from New Zealand but in the meantime, are equipped to help the animals we encounter in our first days.
The time to help is now as the needs are being described as "unimaginable" so please donate to help us secure more medicines, food and shelter materials so we can make sure the animals receive the care they need alongside the people in this nightmare.
I will be reporting from the field beginning tomorrow with updates on what we are doing, what we know of the needs and locations of the worst impacts and how you can help us help the animals who need it. Please help us help the animals in Vanuatu.
A young boy and his puppy stand in a makeshift shelter following the destruction of their home. Port Vila. March 15, 2015 © World Animal Protection / Nicky Kauatonga