Ecuador faced an unprecedented drought this year, profoundly impacting communities nationwide. City dwellers endured 12-hour power outages, and in some cantons, water was rationed for up to 20 hours a day. Rural areas were hit hardest, with the lack of rain drastically reducing crop yields. This resulted in smaller, lower-quality harvests, affecting the income and diet of many Indigenous families who rely heavily on subsistence farming.

During our vaccination campaigns, our team visited various Indigenous villages around Cotacachi and observed a critical decline in animal well-being. With fewer crops to feed their families, both people and animals suffered. Dogs and cats appeared extremely malnourished and dehydrated yet continued to mate and give birth to puppies and kittens that struggled to survive.

At Amici Cannis, we provided emergency veterinary care to many animals in urgent need. Many required hospitalization, and before returning to their families, they were spayed or neutered to help them conserve their strength and prevent unwanted litters.

We distributed feed to families who had lost most of their crops, ensuring their animals received the necessary nutrition. Additionally, our door-to-door interventions starting to include deworming treatments to help animals eliminate internal parasites. This not only enhances their health but also protects the well-being of their families. As part of this disaster aid, we also provided families with potable water.



We plan to continue distributing aid in the coming weeks and aim to engage more supporters who believe in the power of helping both animals and people. You can be part of this effort by donating to this project.