On April 25 a 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal, leaving more than 8,800 people dead and more than 23,000 injured. Governments and charities worldwide rallied to help affected communities clean up the damage and slowly start the rebuilding process.

Also impacted by the earthquake were 1,650 horses, mules, and donkeys in Gorhka, Nepal (the epicenter of the initial earthquake), many of which were injured and trapped, that had been working carrying bricks for their owners. So, the Brooke, an international equine welfare charity, has taken on the task of helping the equids in need.

The Brooke is working closely with owners and communities to rescue and treat hundreds of animals trapped by landslides and injured by falling rocks. Many horses, donkeys, and mules have been isolated with little or no grass to sustain them and their heavy packs are still on their backs.

So far, the Brooke has rescued around 400 animals, which are now grazing safely in open spaces or back in their owners’ villages. Three teams from the Brooke are working together. One group is gathering vital relief supplies, and another is ensuring those supplies are distributed properly. The Brooke has also set up an animal health camp to provide hands-on treatment