The United Nations has announced a $10 million program to protect farm animals in Iraq from potentially devastating epidemics.

The Rome-based U.N. Food and Agriculture Agency said Tuesday it will train veterinarians in disease control and build a number of clinics.

The FAO says neglect and war have severely damaged veterinary services in Iraq.There are nearly 20 million cattle, sheep, and goats in the country.

Iraqis rely on the livestock for such staple foods as meat, milk, cheese, and yogurt.

U.N. officials say they hope to reduce Iraq's reliance on imported foods.