Belgium’s leading animal welfare organisations have officially launched the Animal Disaster Team (ADT) to provide national emergency assistance to animals during natural, industrial, or human-made disasters.
Formed by Global Action in the Interest of Animals (GAIA), the Walloon Union for Animal Protection, UWPA, and the Francophone Federation of Horse and Livestock Shelters, FéFRACAF, the ADT was officially introduced in Gembloux on Tuesday.
The project began in 2021 following the floods that devastated Belgium.
The ADT will assist authorities upon request, supporting emergency services with their expertise.
Equipped with animal transport vehicles, rescue gear for horses and farm animals, and a zodiac for water rescues, the team is well-prepared for various scenarios.
“In 2021, many animals died or went missing,” said UWPA Vice-President Fabrice Renard. “Others were scattered across the country without coordination. It was crucial to offer a concrete solution in case of disasters.”
Beyond rescue missions, ADT will also support shelters during large-scale animal seizures and care operations, by providing human or material aid.
Walloon Minister for Animal Welfare Céline Tellier praised the initiative, saying she commended the proactivity and professionalism of the animal welfare sector.
“With the ADT, we are preparing for the future,” she said. “The collaboration between shelters, firefighters, veterinarians, and authorities ensures we are ready to help animals in any disaster.”
“This initiative will complement the work of emergency veterinarians and rescue zones, which we also support,”Minister Tellier added
