The Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti (ARCH) announced a $1.1 million agreement with the Haitian government aimed at improving the well being of animals and repairing the countries veterinary capacity following the 7.0-magnitude earthquake that struck the nation on Jan. 12.

The coalition will work closely with the Haitian Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of the Environment, and the Ministry of Health to aid the country’s recovery efforts and to help protect communities against future disaster.

ARCH is a collaboration of animal welfare organizations working together to bring aid to the animals and people of Haiti. Current partners include: International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), World Society for Protection of Animals (WSPA), American Humane Association, Best Friends Animal Society, Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), In Defense of Animals (IDA), American Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Foundation, Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society, ASPCA, United Animal Nations, Kinship Circle, One Voice, Swiss Animal Protection, Palo Alto Humane Society (PAHS), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Finnish Federation for Animal Welfare Associations, Animal Medical Care Foundation (AMCF), Petfinder.com Foundation, Mayhew International, and Last Chance for Animals.

“IDA is pleased to be able to help millions of animals in need, address animal and public health concerns and have a long-lasting impact for the animals and people of Haiti,” said Anand Ramanathan, IDA’s Executive Director.

Coalition members arrived in Port-au-Prince just days after the devastating earthquake and they continue to vaccinate and provide medical aid to the animals of Haiti.

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