Japan’s vets form teams to strengthen animal aid during natural disasters. 

A campaign is underway to create emergency response teams across Japan to provide aid for pets and livestock during natural disasters, following the establishment of such services in a number of prefectures.

Formed in the wake of failures following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that hit the Tohoku region, the Veterinary Medical Assistance Team, or VMAT — consisting of veterinarians and animal caretakers — was started to respond more effectively in times of need.