GEPDA

Loading an animal for rescue.

When the Mexican state of Tabasco flooded last month, the first images to make the headlines were of a flooded city reminiscent of New Orleans. Villahermosa, the capital of the state, was flooded up to the rooftops, and more than 300,000 people were displaced—many of them with their pets. Humane Society International responded in conjunction with Gente por la Defensa Animal (GEPDA), our partner organization in Mexico City. Together, we distributed food and treated animals of all kinds throughout Villahermosa and the surrounding areas.

Support Our International Disaster Fund

Help us assist animals threatened by natural disasters and man-made crises now.

However, Tabasco was not the only state affected. Just to the south, the state of Chiapas also experienced heavy flooding and landslides, with thousands of people displaced. As recovery continued in Villahermosa, HSI-funded teams led by GEPDA headed south to assess the damage. What they found was disturbing: The situation was just as critical as in Tabasco, but few organizations had responded. The teams went to work immediately, arranging for more supplies and volunteers, and sending responders into the field. Over two weeks, teams of veterinarians and emergency responders fed and treated hundreds of animals, including dogs and cats, horses, cattle, pigs, poultry, and even parrots. Although this disaster is no longer in the headlines, our teams are still active today.