Aid for animals overseas – the RSPCA’s role

RSPCA NSW is there for animals in need throughout the Asia Pacific region. In times of crisis, the RSPCA has offered its resources and its expertise, for example during the Asian tsunami. We have also run desexing programs for street dogs in other Pacific nations.

The Asian tsunami on Boxing Day 2004 left hundreds of thousands of people and animals injured and homeless. The RSPCA joined in an international effort in Sri Lanka to help the animal victims of this tragedy. According to the RSPCA’s Dr Raj Packianathan, street dog numbers in Sri Lanka are “massive”. Dr Packianathan worked on an animal aid project in Tissamaharama (south of Colombo) which aimed to control stray dog numbers by injectible sterilisation.

“Stray dogs have been a serious issue in Sri Lanka for some time. Because of the loss of infrastructure caused by the tsunami, stray dogs posed a major public health threat due to the risk of rabies,” Dr Packianathan said.

Left: With the help of RSPCA Australia, NSW and Victoria, RSPCA PNG operates a clinic to treat the nation's sick animals.

“Controlling dog populations was an integral part of the tsunami relief operations.”

Injectible contraception is favoured over surgery in countries with a largely Hindu or Buddhist cultures and last about two years. Local villagers enthusiastically welcomed the overseas vets and brought about 50 dogs each day for their contraceptive implants.

The RSPCA has also participated in street dog programs in Bora Bora and the Cook Islands. The RSPCA offers on-going support to RSPCA PNG.

Left: Helping street dogs in Bora Bora. The RSPCA worked with the Esther Honey Foundation to help relieve the suffering of thousands of dogs on this remote volcanic.

With animal welfare only just emerging as part of some Asian cultures, the RSPCA needs an ongoing role in desexing, education and responsible pet ownership.