There are countless state-run and private animal shelters in Romania, though many do not deserve the title ‘shelter’. Often – particularly the state-run institutions – they are merely holding centres for dogs caught on the streets by dog catchers. In many of these shelters, there is neither medical care nor sufficient food, and, above all, there is a severe lack of space. There is no trained staff with any understanding of pack dynamics or, more generally, the behavioural psychology of dogs. The animals’ situation is catastrophic, and many do not leave such shelters alive.
Since a change in the law in 2013, stray dogs that have been neutered are no longer allowed to return to their territory. For this reason, we support selected animal shelters where the dogs have found a decent home. We provide assistance in the form of medication, anti-parasitic treatments, donations of supplies, food and financial contributions. Whenever possible, we try to build long-term relationships in order to bring about lasting change.
There are hardly any cat shelters in Romania. That is why, together with our partner Sache Vet, we have set up several cat shelters on their premises.