Humane Society International and The Humane Society of the United States have been in communication with Chilean animal welfare organizations since the eruption earlier this week and have now sent highly trained animal rescue specialists to the affected area. The evacuation forced residents to leave behind approximately 4,000 companion animals and 50,000 farm animals to fend for themselves.

The team will deploy to Chile on Thursday, and travel to heavily impacted Chaitén. 

“After hearing that local news reports are calling Chaitén a 'city taken by dogs,' due to the large number of animals wandering the now-abandoned streets, I knew we had to move quickly in order to save these desperate animals,” said Scotlund Haisley, HSUS senior director of emergency services. “We are also attempting to get animal rescue specialists into Myanmar to help animals in areas devastated by the recent cyclone.” 

In Chile, HSI/HSUS expertise was urgently needed, as the volcano continues to billow poisonous ash, spew lava and endanger the many animals stranded there. Drinking sources in the evacuated town of Chaitén have been contaminated by volcanic ash and food supplies are scarce, leaving the animals in a dire situation.  

HSI/HSUS animal rescue personnel will join forces with Chilean animal welfare groups ACUAA and CEFU, with whom HSI has fostered long-standing relationships. The goal will be to offer fresh food, water and medical assistance to affected animals. The HSUS will also strive to assist in reuniting animals with their families once residents are permitted to return to their homes.  

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org. 

Humane Society International is the international arm of The Humane Society of the United States, the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at hsi.org.