The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad, (SPANA) is waiting for clearance from the Foreign Office to fly into Iraq.

In a matter of days, the allies could commit to an all out assault on Baghdad and as soon as reasonably possible SPANA wants to begin its mission to provide emergency veterinary treatment and supplies to animals suffering as a result.

SPANA was the first animal charity to establish a facility in Kosovo during the conflict in 1999. Since then, working with the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), SPANA has built a refuge for sick and injured animals in the capital city, Pristina. Recently in Zimbabwe SPANA was able to help set up a system to rescue hundreds of working and domestic animals left behind by many white farmers, evicted from their homes in the political turmoil of President Mugabe's land reform policy.

Jeremy Hulme, SPANA, CEO commented:

"It is tragic to see the awful suffering of innocent animals caught up in the horrors and brutality of war.

"Although clearly the welfare and safety of human beings comes first these animals are vital in a rural society for the peoples long term survival. Someone has to care for them while normality is restored".

SPANA celebrates its 80th birthday this year. It works with the poorest peoples of the world who are usually completely dependent on their working animals for their livelihood. Of the 200m equines in the world, only 5% are used for leisure or sporting purposes

SPANA operates 19 veterinary centres and 21 mobile clinics which currently treat over 300 000 animals each year. The charity has bases in Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Mali, Syria, Mauritania, Algeria and shortly in Ethiopia.

The organisation will be supplying vets, supplies and assistance to local agencies in and around Iraq under the guidance of the Foreign Office.

SPANA relies on its British supporter base, trusts and legacies for its annual income. Donations can be sent to SPANA, 14 John Street, London, WC1N 2EB or for more information call 0207 269 2684 or email hq@spana.org.

Photograph: Kate Hosali who founded SPANA over 80 years ago, recognised the value and contributions animals make to people and our world, as she journeyed Africa and the Middle East treating animals.

Submitted by: Steve O'Malley      

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