As reported by UNGRD, the Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres (UNGRD) is advancing in the approval of the General Protocol for the Formulation of Guidelines for Animal Care in Emergency Situations.
This protocol aims to establish a roadmap, define responsible entities, and describe the response actions required for the rescue, medical care, and provision of water, food, and shelter for all species affected by natural events and climate change challenges.
The protocol was developed under the leadership of UNGRD in collaboration with 23 entities of the National Disaster Risk Management System (SNGRD), including DAPRE, DNP, and the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture.
It was submitted to the Presidency of the Republic and the National Planning Department on 26 March 2024.
The protocol is currently pending approval and has been constructed through technical roundtables since November of last year.
Carlos Carrillo, the current head of UNGRD, has reaffirmed the entity’s commitment to this protocol.
He announced that the National Committee for Disaster Management, responsible for approving the document, will be convened in the coming days.
In addition to promoting the protocol, the new leadership is also supporting legislative efforts to establish a legal framework that empowers entities responsible for animal welfare in the country.
Colombia is a pioneer in the development of such a protocol, actively involving competent government entities of the SNGRD, not only within the Americas but also globally.
Once approved, entities involved in animal care during emergencies will be required to develop their institutional protocols.
The General Protocol for the Formulation of Guidelines for Animal Care in Emergency Situations has been under construction through technical discussions facilitated by the Disaster Management sub-directorate since November 2023.
The aim is to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to animal welfare during emergencies, addressing the rescue, medical care, and basic needs of animals affected by disasters.
The protocol includes specific actions to be undertaken by various entities, ensuring a structured response during emergencies.
These actions encompass the immediate rescue and medical attention of animals, as well as long-term provisions such as food, water, and shelter.
This approach is intended to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on animals and support their recovery.
Upon approval of the protocol, each entity with responsibilities in animal emergency care will be tasked with developing their specific institutional protocols.
This step is crucial to ensure that all entities are prepared and equipped to respond effectively to emergencies involving animals.
The collaborative effort aims to create a robust and comprehensive emergency response system that addresses the needs of all affected species.
The UNGRD emphasizes the importance of this protocol in enhancing the country’s capacity to manage animal welfare during emergencies, reflecting a significant advancement in disaster management practices.
This content was translated using automated software and may contain errors.
