The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a national animal‑welfare organization known for disaster response and rescue operations, has deployed a four‑member disaster team to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to support post‑Typhoon Sinlaku relief efforts.
The deployment, requested by the Guam Department of Agriculture and carried out in partnership with the National Animal Rescue & Sheltering Coalition and the Saipan Humane Society, began on April 23. Responders have been assessing storm damage, delivering supplies, and providing medical support for displaced and injured animals across Saipan and Tinian. Two team members traveled to Tinian last week to meet with community leaders and evaluate needs there.
So far, the organization has assisted more than 260 animals, providing pet food, water, flea, tick and heartworm preventatives, and transporting animals with significant medical needs to a temporary veterinary clinic. The team is also working with Dr. Mariana Turner, Guam’s territorial veterinarian, and the American Red Cross to distribute pet food and supplies across Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
“Many of the animals in the Northern Mariana Islands face increased risk because of the large number of community dogs and cats who need support during times of crisis just as much as owned pets,” said Susan Anderson, senior director of disaster response for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. “We are committed to making sure companion animals on Saipan and neighboring islands receive the resources they need for recovery.”
The organization said its responders will remain in the CNMI until a long‑term recovery plan is established and their presence is no longer needed.
