Combating Animal disaster through Veterinary response unit. A University of Nairobi initiative.

Abstract

Natural disasters and calamities throw up major challenges for national governments in many countries of the African region. Droughts, floods, epidemics, tsunamis, and landslides are some of the common occurrence in the region, repeatedly taking a heavy toll of life and property. In such serious disaster situations, the major challenge for authorities is the protection of life (human and animal), property, and the vital life-supporting infrastructure necessary for disaster mitigation. Any delay or laxity in disaster relief could escalate the magnitude of distress for the victims. Disaster management programs could provide a critical support system for disaster management authorities at times of disaster-related crises. Natural disasters inflict severe damage on alm or outreach and provision of community service, the department of Clinical Studies, through external funding (WSPA), has established a disaster management and mitigation project. During the national drought disaster of 2010-2011, this project helped to improve coping status of 20,039 animals in Mwingi. In addition, for the past 3 years, the department has engaged in slum feral dog and cat rabies vaccinations (4,399 cases) and their population control through spay and neuter (815 cases). This has helped mitigate onset and spread of rabies in the slum areas of Nairobi. We have also dewormed dogs and cats (5,317) cases. The intended presentation will highlight the activities of the programs, point out their challenges and stimulate the audience for a sustainable way forward resolution.