AVMA and Merck donate funds for earthquake relief in Turkey and Syria

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) and Merck Animal Health announced both companies donated $50,000 each to support veterinarians and animals affected by the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria in February 2023. The money will help support relief efforts and recovery efforts continue as over 50,000 people died in the disaster.

"A disaster of this magnitude requires an international response, and we are very grateful to Merck Animal Health for joining with us in offering support to our colleagues and the people of Turkey and Syria who have experienced such suffering," said Jose Arce, DVM, chair of the AVMF and immediate past president of the AVMA, in an organizational release.¹

Shelters are overwhelmed, and veterinary supplies and care are limited which severely impacted the veterinary communities’ capabilities for care, including livestock that is crucial to the food supply. According to the release, Dr Murat Arslan, president of the Turkish Veterinary Medical Association, disclosed that 90% of veterinary clinics in the region struck by the 2 massive earthquakes on February 6, 2023, were ruined.¹

"We stand united with the people and pets of Turkey and Syria who are facing a humanitarian crisis after the recent devastating earthquakes," expressed Christine Royal, DVM, vice president of the U.S. Companion Animal & Equine business unit, Merck Animal Health.¹ "We are proud to team up with the AVMF and support the relief efforts, and hope these funds go a long way in protecting the health and welfare of animals and their caretakers who are still recovering from this terrible disaster."

At this time, the funding will go to the Turkish Veterinary Medical Association and the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Other charities may be added as the situation continues to evolve.

Reference

American Veterinary Medical Foundation and Merck Animal Health donate to Turkey, Syria to aid earthquake relief for veterinarians and animals. News release. American Veterinary Medical Association. April 5, 2023. Accessed April 5, 2023. https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/american-veterinary-medical-foundation-and-merck-animal-health-donate-turkey