Disaster relief in Turkey and Syria

Join us in helping those impacted by major earthquakes

On February 6, major earthquakes and more than a thousand subsequent aftershocks reduced buildings and homes in 10 provinces in Turkey and Syria to rubble. As communities begin recovery efforts, shelters are overwhelmed, and veterinary care and supplies are limited. The veterinary community’s ability to care for animals, including livestock critical to the food supply, has been severely impacted.

In response to the need for immediate aid, AVMF and Merck Foundation (the philanthropic arm of Merck Animal Health), will each contribute $50,000 to relief efforts as Turkey and Syria continue recovery efforts from the deadly earthquakes which claimed more than 50,000 lives.

“A disaster of this magnitude requires an international response, and we are very grateful to Merck for joining us in offering support to our colleagues and the people of Turkey and Syria who have experienced such suffering.” – Dr. José Arce, chair of the AVMF board of directors and immediate past president of the AVMA.

Initial plans call for the AVMF/Merck funding to be provided to the Turkish Veterinary Medical Association and the International Fund for Animal Welfare, which is already working with organizations on the ground in both Turkey and Syria. Other charities may be added as the situation evolves.