Bombay SPCA Secretary participates in Asia for Animals Conference

Asia's largest animal welfare forum, the Asia for Animals conference, was held this year in Chengdu, capital of south-west China's Sichuan Province, from June 9 to 15. This, the 6th such event, brought together 350 delegates from animal welfare organisations from around the world.

Sponsored by Animals Asia Foundation (AAF), a non-governmental organisation based in Hong Kong, the Asia for Animals conferences have been held in Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, Chennai and Bali. Among the other sponsors this year were the Hong Kong SPCA, WSPA, International Animal Rescue and Best Friends.

Jill Robinson, founder and CEO of AAF said that the conference brings together animal protection groups and individuals to explore ways to improve animal welfare and prompt legislation in Asian countries. She continued, "It is crucial for animal welfare specialists to share their experiences and challenges for the common cause, as many animals are still exploited, abused and neglected throughout Asia"

Col. Khanna had been requested to make a presentation on Disaster Preparedness with particular reference to shelters. Col. Khanna had earlier spoken on this subject at a WSPA (The World Society for Protection of Animals) conference in Mumbai with reference to the Mumbai floods. The Animals for Asia Conference organizers felt that this subject would be of benefit and interest to delegates at the China conference. WSPA in fact sponsored his participation for which the Bombay SPCA is grateful.

Col. Khanna reports that most of the Asian delegates were keen on discussing common problems mainly related to implementing existing rules for animal welfare. He says that those representing the SPCAs in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan were keen to work with the Bombay SPCA in times of natural calamities and emergencies.