The 8.9 earthquake and ensuing 30-foot tsunami in Japan have combined to form one of the biggest disasters ever recorded. In the wake of it, dozens of cities and villages spanning 1,300 miles of coastline were rocked by violent tremors that reached as far as Tokyo. Now, conditions are getting worse day by day, so get involved by donating or volunteering at these disaster relief charities for humans and pets.

At last count, the death toll rose above 7,000. With blackouts, closed roads and the sheer amount of disaster, the world needs to step up and help in any way we can. President Obama said "The United States stands ready to help the Japanese people in this time of great trial.” Do your part by donating to one of these charities that are providing help to the Japanese people.

• Go to Redcross.org or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 from your phone.

• Use this form on UNICEF's website to donate to their fund designated for victims of the earthquake or text JAPAN to 864233 to donate $10.

• Contribute to its medical response by visiting Internationalmedicalcorps.org or text MED to 80888 from any mobile phone to give $10.

• Visit the SalvationArmyUSA.org or text 'JAPAN' or 'QUAKE' to 80888 to make a $10 donation.

• There is also The Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund, GlobalGiving.org, Doctorswithoutborders.org, AmeriCare, Shelterbox, Peace Winds Japan and Operation USA.

Humans weren’t the only ones affected. Pets and livestock are facing dangers from water-born illnesses and starvation. Some pets were lucky enough to escape to shelters with their owners but for the others that weren’t so lucky, they need help and support now. Visit the following charities to donate money or volunteer.

• World Vets arrived last week armed with veterinary supplies. They are doing on-the-ground assessments of animals for initial help.

• Ark Bark helped out in the earthquake of ’95 and now expects an influx of homeless pets that they’ll transport to emergency shelters.

• Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support has teamed up with HEART-Tokushima, Animal Garden Niigata and Japan Cat Network to save animals, including the now famous dog that wouldn’t leave his wounded friend.

• Humane Society International in Japan has deployed a disaster response team to the region.

• There is also the World Society for the Protection of Animals, the American Humane Association and the Animal Refuge Kansai.

What are you doing to help?

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Image by CTV.ca