WECare vaccinates more than 32,000 dogs , expands aid after flood

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, Dec. 19 (Daily Mirror) - In the aftermath of the devastating floods, while many organisations rushed to assist affected communities, one group turned its attention to often-overlooked victims — street dogs.

WECare Worldwide mobilised urgently to provide emergency veterinary care to surviving animals and to prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as leptospirosis, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and rabies.

596 vaccinations were given, as well as 75 essential treatments for ailments like wound care and skin disease, and one critically ill dog who was transferred to their hospital for life-saving surgery. 

Founded in 2014 by UK veterinarian Dr. Janey Lowes, WECare was established after she witnessed the plight of Sri Lanka’s street dogs while holidaying on the island. The organisation operates from its hospital base in Gandara on the south coast, providing essential services including emergency treatment, vaccinations and sterilisation.

“Over the last 11 years of being in Sri Lanka, we’ve witnessed the ups and downs the island goes through, but the current situation is unprecedented,” Dr. Lowes said.

She added that WECare is proud to provide an invaluable national service.

“Our team’s resilience and determination to help vulnerable animals during such difficult times is inspiring and reflects our deep commitment to the community,” she said.

Over the past 11 years, WECare has vaccinated a total of 32,356 dogs against rabies. In addition, 13,868 sick and injured animals have received treatment, while 15,804 animals have been neutered.