Goa Animal Rescue Shelter Expands Care for Horses and Pets
A community-led initiative in Goa offers refuge for horses, dogs, cats, sheep and more.!!!
With nearly two decades of experience in the media and entertainment industry, Preeti Jha is a creative producer and director known for her expertise in content creation, production management, and storytelling. Currently serving as a senior creative producer at IncNut Digital, Preeti plays a pivotal role in developing high-impact digital content, overseeing creative strategy, and managing production workflows.
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Goa’s compassionate animal rescue project has been quietly evolving over the past 12 years, steadily building a sanctuary for creatures in need. Based in the scenic state of Goa, India, the non-commercial shelter is a labor of love run by a devoted family who has rescued, treated, and now accommodates an impressive collection of animals. At present, the shelter is home to 11 horses, more than 10 dogs, 5 cats, sheep, and a goat. Their efforts, primarily funded by their own family budget and the benevolence of supporters from Russia, Europe, and local communities, highlight the true spirit of volunteerism and animal welfare.
Project Overview
The shelter’s journey began with a modest initiative to rescue horses in distress. Over the last 12 years, the family has successfully rescued and cured nine horses in Goa. Today, their refuge not only shelters horses but also provides a haven for numerous other animals. Each resident, many of whom are advanced in age with some animals between 15 and 25 years old, carries a unique history and poignant backstory.
Maintaining such a sanctuary, however, is not without its challenges. The costs are considerable; for instance, the upkeep of a single horse—encompassing feed, waiting, and medicine—averages between 15,000 to 25,000 rupees per month. The dogs and cats, while slightly less expensive, require around 12,000 rupees monthly just for sustenance. Additionally, the stable housing these animals is in dire need of renovation to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the rescued animals.
Financial Challenges & Support Needed
Financial hurdles form a significant part of the shelter’s operational challenges. With escalating costs for animal care and the urgent need to renovate the stables, the family managing the shelter calls on the broader community to help. They are seeking multiple forms of assistance, including:
• Spreading awareness about the shelter and its mission through social media channels.
• Regular volunteers who can dedicate time and care to the animals.
• Donations of essential medicine to ensure timely treatment.
• Financial support, along with food supplies such as watermelon, carrots, hay, rice grass, and dedicated pet food for dogs and cats.
To facilitate donations, the shelter has provided a GPay number (9923322421) for anyone willing to contribute. This transparent call for support emphasizes that every little bit helps, whether it’s time, resources, or funds.
Community And Volunteer Involvement
The heartwarming aspect of this initiative is the community involvement. More than just an animal rescue shelter, the sanctuary is part of a larger journey that includes volunteer camps and interactive activities with children. These activities aim not only to provide care for animals but also to educate and engage the younger generation in animal welfare. The shelter is run by a close-knit family including three young girls, aged 9, 7, and 3, along with the husband and wife team who manage daily operations. Their commitment to the cause is evident through their continued effort in the face of financial and logistical challenges.
In an interesting cross-over of celebrity influence and social responsibility, popular personality Dharmesh Yelande, known for his dynamic presence on social media as @dharmesh0011, has been linked to outreach efforts around this noble cause. While Dharmesh is primarily celebrated for his contributions to dance and entertainment, his association with charitable initiatives like this shelter amplifies the shelter’s visibility. His involvement, whether through public service announcements or social media shoutouts, can help draw the attention and support needed to sustain these lifesaving efforts.
The shelter’s story is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance. Their operations are thoroughly grounded in community service, and they do not operate on a for-profit basis. Instead, they rely solely on the generosity of caring individuals across continents. In today’s fast-paced world, where the spotlight often falls on celebrity glitz and glamour, this humble project in Goa reminds us that real change frequently happens at the grassroots level.
Backed by volunteers and an expanding network of donors, the shelter continues to be a beacon of hope for the animals under its care. With every rescued life, the team reaffirms the belief that compassion, when shared, can transform communities.
The ongoing call to action is clear: spread the word, volunteer, donate, and help raise the necessary resources to ensure these animals receive the ongoing care they deserve. For those who love animals and believe in the power of community, supporting this shelter is a way to contribute to a larger cause—one that makes a tangible difference in the lives of animals in need.
This project not only embodies the spirit of rescue and rehabilitation but also serves as an inspiring reminder of how dedication and persistent kindness can overcome even the most financially daunting challenges. As the community rallies behind this cause, the future looks promising for both the animals and the families who continue to care for them, making Goa a little brighter, one rescue at a time.
Trivia
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