HSI

Lucky puppies feast in the ashes.

Although the HSI/HSUS Emergency Services team returned from Chile in mid-May, our local partners continue to work in the area affected by the volcanic eruption of May 6.

Today, we received word from Albergando a Un Amigo (AUA) that 220 animals have now been brought out of Chaitén, the hardest-hit city. In even better news, the Chilean government has agreed to bring all remaining living animals out of Chaitén. Both Air Force personnel and police on patrol in the city have been instructed to take as many pets with them as they can find as they go about their business.

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Sheltered, Then Reunited or Adopted

Evacuated families have come forward with information on the situation and location of 450 pets, and rescue groups are doing their best to return their cats and dogs to them. Forty reunions have already taken place.

In the next few weeks, our partners will continue to help bring as many animals out of Chaitén as possible and transport them to temporary shelter, where they will be received, reunited with their families whenever possible, or eventually put up for adoption if they remain unclaimed.

Vets on site are also spaying and neutering strays.

It Can Be Done

HSI's/The HSUS's contributions to this effort have included not only on-the-ground staff doing hands-on rescue, but also funding for animal cages and support for transport and the temporary shelter where animals are being kept in Puerto Montt. Together with the invaluable help of local organizations, we hope to have demonstrated to the Chilean government and people that saving animals after disasters is definitely feasible, as well as humane for pets and rewarding for their human companions.